How to Drift with an Automatic Transmission?

[Manuel]

Downshift while applying throttle and steer into the turn to induce oversteer. When slight oversteer occurs, release the throttle and counter-steer. When the vehicle shows signs of fishtailing or spinning, release the throttle; when it's about to lose drift momentum, apply throttle again.

[IsaacLee]

To drift with an automatic transmission, you first need to set up the car properly. From my experience, you must turn off the electronic stability system—it’s too meddlesome and cuts power the moment you start sliding. Using an automatic car with a manual mode is the easiest; lock the RPM in first or second gear, like the older BMW 3 Series, which works great. Tires also matter—use worn-out tires with less grip on the rear wheels to initiate drifts more easily, and set the tire pressure 5 psi lower than the front tires. Check the handbrake—factory handbrakes with lots of plastic parts tend to break, so if you’re serious about drifting, upgrade to a hydraulic one. Finally, always pick a wide-open space, preferably asphalt with some gravel, and practice fishtailing before tackling consecutive turns.