Drifting an AWD car is possible and distinct from RWD drifting, relying on simultaneous four-wheel slip achieved through specific weight transfer, power application, and sometimes the handbrake. Success depends heavily on proper technique, vehicle setup, and choosing a low-grip surface for practice. The core process involves disabling driver aids, initiating the slide via a flick or handbrake, and maintaining it with throttle and counter-steer.
Preparation and Vehicle Setup is Critical
Before attempting a drift, disable all electronic stability and traction control systems. These are designed to prevent wheel slip, which is essential for drifting. AWD drifting generally demands more power than RWD to overcome the traction from all four wheels. On dry tarmac, most AWD cars require at least 300 horsepower to initiate and sustain a power-oversteer slide effectively. On surfaces like snow, wet asphalt, or gravel, significantly less power is needed. Modifications like slightly higher rear tire pressure or a stiffer rear anti-roll bar can help promote oversteer, but are not mandatory for initial learning.
Primary Techniques for Initiating a Drift
The most effective methods to break an AWD car's traction are the Scandinavian Flick and the Handbrake Turn. The Scandinavian Flick (or Pendulum Turn) uses weight transfer: briefly turn away from the corner, then immediately and sharply turn into it while lifting off the throttle. This shifts weight to the front wheels, lightening the rear and causing it to slide out. The Handbrake Method is more direct: as you approach the turn, pull the handbrake sharply to lock the rear wheels and induce a slide, then immediately apply power and counter-steer.
Maintaining and Controlling the Slide
Once the rear of the car begins to slide, you must apply substantial, consistent throttle to keep all four wheels spinning. Unlike RWD where throttle modulates slide angle, in AWD, throttle primarily maintains momentum. Counter-steering is crucial: turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the front of the car to go, which is opposite to the corner's direction. This controls the drift angle. The front wheels, under power, will pull the car through the turn. AWD drifts are typically faster and more stable but require faster corrective steering inputs.
Environmental Factors and Safety
Learning on a low-friction surface is highly recommended, if not essential. Snow, wet skid pads, or loose gravel provide slower speeds and more forgiveness. Industry data from rally and drift schools indicates that over 80% of foundational AWD drift training is conducted on such low-grip environments. Always practice in a wide-open, legal, and safe area away from public roads, obstacles, and spectators. Vehicle readiness—checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and brake function—is a non-negotiable safety step.
| Technique | Best Use Case | Key Action | AWD-Specific Note |
|---|
| Scandinavian Flick | Higher-speed, flowing corners | Weight transfer via lift-off & sharp steering input | Requires precise timing; the front-wheel pull helps complete the turn. |
| Handbrake Initiation | Tight corners, lower speeds | Sharp pull of hydraulic/e-brake to lock rears | Effective on most surfaces; easiest method for beginners to feel the slide. |
| Power-Oversteer | High-power, rear-biased AWD cars | Abrupt, full-throttle application | Less controllable on dry tarmac; requires significant horsepower. |
Mastering AWD drifting takes persistent practice. Focus on smooth inputs and understanding how your specific car's weight transfers. The goal is controlled, predictable slides, not uncontrollable spins.
