top of page
Search

BMW Drift: Why All-Wheel Drive M Cars Can Still Do Skids



BMW Drift: How to Master the Art of Sliding in a German Beast




Do you love the thrill of driving fast and sideways? Do you want to unleash the full potential of your BMW M car? Do you want to impress your friends and spectators with your skills and style? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you might be interested in learning how to drift a BMW.




bmw drift




Drifting is a driving technique that involves intentionally oversteering the car to make it slide or skid through a corner. It is a form of motorsport that requires a lot of practice, precision, and control. It is also a lot of fun and can make you feel like a movie star or a racing legend.


In this article, we will explain what drifting is, why it is fun, how to drift a BMW M car, and where to practice safely and legally. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about drifting. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the art of sliding in a German beast.


What is Drifting and Why is it Fun?




Drifting is a driving technique that involves intentionally oversteering the car to make it slide or skid through a corner. The driver uses the throttle, brakes, clutch, steering, and gears to control the angle, speed, and direction of the car. The goal is to maintain a smooth and continuous drift without losing control or traction.


The History of Drifting




Drifting originated in Japan in the 1970s, when street racers started to slide their cars on mountain roads. One of the pioneers of drifting was Kunimitsu Takahashi, a former motorcycle racer who used his car's rear wheels to break traction and create smoke. He inspired another driver, Keiichi Tsuchiya, who became known as the "Drift King" for his skills and style. Tsuchiya popularized drifting through his videos and magazine articles, and also founded the D1 Grand Prix, the first professional drifting series in Japan.


The Benefits of Drifting




Drifting has many benefits for drivers who want to improve their driving skills and have fun. Some of these benefits are:


bmw drift car


bmw drift video


bmw drift game


bmw drift school


bmw drift like a boss


bmw drift experience


bmw drift mode


bmw drift wallpaper


bmw drift compilation


bmw drift simulator


bmw drift fail


bmw drift show


bmw drift kit


bmw drift sound


bmw drift race


bmw drift challenge


bmw drift tips


bmw drift gif


bmw drift sticker


bmw drift wallpaper hd


bmw drift in snow


bmw drift team


bmw drift parts


bmw drift ringtone


bmw drift academy


bmw drift wallpaper 4k


bmw drift in rain


bmw drift club


bmw drift accessories


bmw drift music


bmw drift training


bmw drift wallpaper iphone


bmw drift in mud


bmw drift event


bmw drift steering wheel


bmw drift logo


bmw drift course


bmw drift wallpaper android


bmw drift in sand


bmw drift festival


bmw drift wheels


bmw drift app


bmw drift lesson


bmw drift wallpaper pc


bmw drift in grass


bmw drift championship


bmw drift tires


bmw drift online game


  • Drifting teaches you how to control your car in extreme situations, such as oversteer, understeer, or loss of grip. This can help you avoid accidents or recover from mistakes on the road.



  • Drifting improves your car handling, steering, braking, and throttle control. You learn how to balance your car's weight distribution, traction, and momentum through different types of corners.



  • Drifting enhances your spatial awareness, reflexes, and coordination. You learn how to judge distances, angles, speeds, and timings while drifting. You also learn how to react quickly and smoothly to changing conditions.



  • Drifting boosts your confidence, creativity, and expression. You learn how to master your car's limits and capabilities. You also learn how to customize your car's setup and style to suit your preferences and personality.



  • Drifting provides you with adrenaline, excitement, and satisfaction. You experience the thrill of driving fast and sideways. You also experience the joy of completing a successful drift or performing a spectacular maneuver.



The Risks of Drifting




Drifting also has some risks that you should be aware of before you try it. Some of these risks are:


  • Drifting can damage your car's tires, brakes, suspension, engine, and transmission. You may need to replace or repair these parts more frequently than normal. You may also void your car's warranty or insurance if you drift on public roads.



  • Drifting can cause accidents or injuries to yourself, your passengers, other drivers, or bystanders. You may lose control of your car and crash into obstacles, barriers, or other vehicles. You may also endanger the lives of people who are watching or participating in drifting.



  • Drifting can result in legal consequences or penalties. You may be fined, arrested, or sued for drifting on public roads or private property without permission. You may also face charges for reckless driving, endangerment, or vandalism.



Therefore, you should always drift responsibly and safely. You should only drift on designated locations that are approved and supervised by authorities or organizers. You should also follow the rules and regulations of drifting and respect the rights and safety of others.


How to Drift a BMW M Car




Now that you know what drifting is and why it is fun, you may be wondering how to drift a BMW M car. BMW M cars are high-performance vehicles that are designed and engineered for driving enthusiasts. They have powerful engines, sporty transmissions, agile handling, and sophisticated technology. They are also ideal for drifting, as they have features that allow you to control and adjust the car's behavior and performance.


Choose the Right Car and Setup




The first step to drift a BMW M car is to choose the right car and setup for drifting. There are many models and variants of BMW M cars, but not all of them are suitable for drifting. Some of them have features that make drifting easier or harder, depending on your preference and skill level.


BMW M Models with Drift Mode




Some BMW M models have a feature called Drift Mode, which is part of the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) system. Drift Mode is a driving mode that reduces the intervention of the electronic stability control (ESC) system and allows more wheel slip and oversteer. It also adjusts the steering, throttle, and brake response to make drifting smoother and more predictable. Drift Mode is activated by pressing the MDM button on the center console or the steering wheel.


Some of the BMW M models that have Drift Mode are:


  • BMW M2 Competition



  • BMW M3 Competition



  • BMW M4 Competition



  • BMW M5 Competition



  • BMW M6 Competition



  • BMW M8 Competition



BMW M Models with Rear-Wheel Drive




Another factor that affects the driftability of a BMW M car is the type of drivetrain it has. Drivetrain refers to the system that transfers power from the engine to the wheels. There are three main types of drivetrain: front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), and all-wheel drive (AWD). For drifting, RWD is the best option, as it allows you to use the throttle to induce oversteer and slide the rear wheels.


Some of the BMW M models that have RWD are:


  • BMW M2 Competition



  • BMW M3 Competition



  • BMW M4 Competition



  • BMW M6 Competition



  • BMW Z4 M40i



Modifications and Accessories for Drifting




If you want to enhance your BMW M car's performance and appearance for drifting, you can also modify it or add some accessories. Some of the common modifications and accessories for drifting are:


  • Tires: You can use wider, softer, or lower-profile tires to increase grip and traction. You can also use different tires for the front and rear wheels to create a balance between understeer and oversteer.



  • Suspension: You can lower, stiffen, or adjust your suspension to improve handling and stability. You can also use coilovers, sway bars, camber kits, or strut braces to fine-tune your suspension settings.



  • Differential: You can use a limited-slip differential (LSD) or a welded differential (WELD) to lock your rear wheels together and make them spin at the same speed. This can help you maintain a drift without losing power or speed.



  • Brakes: You can upgrade your brakes to increase stopping power and responsiveness. You can also use a hydraulic handbrake (HYDRO) to lock your rear wheels instantly and initiate a drift.Exhaust: You can install a louder, lighter, or more efficient exhaust system to improve your engine's performance and sound. You can also use a flame kit to shoot flames from your exhaust pipes and create a visual effect.



  • Aerodynamics: You can add a spoiler, a diffuser, a splitter, or a body kit to reduce drag and increase downforce. You can also use stickers, decals, or paint to customize your car's appearance and express your style.



However, you should be careful not to overdo it or compromise your car's safety or reliability. You should also consult a professional mechanic or tuner before making any changes to your car.


Learn the Basic Techniques of Drifting




The next step to drift a BMW M car is to learn the basic techniques of drifting. There are many ways to initiate and maintain a drift, but some of the most common and popular ones are:


Clutch Kick




A clutch kick is a technique that involves using the clutch pedal to momentarily disengage and re-engage the engine and the transmission. This creates a sudden burst of torque that breaks the rear wheels' traction and causes oversteer. To perform a clutch kick, you need to:


  • Approach a corner at a moderate speed and in a low gear.



  • Turn the steering wheel slightly in the direction of the corner.



  • Press the clutch pedal quickly and release it sharply.



  • Apply the throttle to maintain the drift.



  • Countersteer and modulate the throttle and brakes to control the drift.



Handbrake Turn




A handbrake turn is a technique that involves using the handbrake or parking brake to lock the rear wheels and induce oversteer. This is one of the easiest and most common ways to start a drift. To perform a handbrake turn, you need to:


  • Approach a corner at a moderate speed and in a low gear.



  • Turn the steering wheel slightly in the direction of the corner.



  • Pull the handbrake lever firmly and hold it until the rear wheels lock.



  • Release the handbrake and apply the throttle to maintain the drift.



  • Countersteer and modulate the throttle and brakes to control the drift.



Power Oversteer




A power oversteer is a technique that involves using the throttle to generate enough power and torque to overcome the rear wheels' grip and cause oversteer. This is one of the most natural and smooth ways to drift, but it requires a lot of power and speed. To perform a power oversteer, you need to:


  • Approach a corner at a high speed and in a high gear.



  • Turn the steering wheel sharply in the direction of the corner.



  • Floor the throttle pedal to spin the rear wheels and create oversteer.



  • Lift off the throttle slightly to balance the drift.



  • Countersteer and modulate the throttle and brakes to control the drift.



Scandinavian Flick




A Scandinavian flick is a technique that involves using weight transfer and momentum to create oversteer. It is also known as a pendulum turn or a feint drift. It is one of the most advanced and difficult ways to drift, but it can also be one of the most impressive and rewarding ones. To perform a Scandinavian flick, you need to:


  • Approach a corner at a high speed and in a low gear.



  • Turn the steering wheel slightly away from the direction of the corner.



  • Lift off the throttle or brake lightly to shift the weight to the front wheels.



  • Turn the steering wheel quickly in the direction of the corner.



  • Floor the throttle or clutch kick to break traction and create oversteer.



  • Countersteer and modulate the throttle and brakes to control the drift.



Practice on a Safe and Legal Location




The final step to drift a BMW M car is to practice on a safe and legal location. Drifting is not something that you can learn overnight or master in one session. It takes a lot of time, patience, and dedication to improve your skills and style. It also takes a lot of respect and responsibility to avoid harming yourself, your car, or others.


Therefore, you should always practice drifting on designated locations that are approved and supervised by authorities or organizers. These locations can provide you with the necessary facilities, equipment, and guidance to drift safely and legally. They can also offer you the opportunity to meet other drifters, learn from them, and have fun with them.


Drift Schools and Courses




One of the best ways to learn how to drift is to enroll in a drift school or course. A drift school or course is a program that teaches you the theory and practice of drifting. It is usually conducted by professional instructors who have extensive experience and knowledge in drifting. They can provide you with the proper training, feedback, and tips to help you improve your drifting skills.


A drift school or course can also provide you with the necessary equipment and vehicles to drift. You can either use your own BMW M car or rent one from the school or course. You can also choose from different levels of difficulty and duration, depending on your preference and budget.


Some of the drift schools and courses that you can find in the US are:


  • Drift 101



  • Drift Nirvana



  • Club Loose



  • US Drift



  • Formula Drift



Drift Tracks and Events




Another way to practice drifting is to visit a drift track or event. A drift track or event is a location that hosts drifting sessions, competitions, or shows. It is usually a closed circuit or a parking lot that has been modified and prepared for drifting. It has various features, such as curves, turns, cones, barriers, or obstacles, that challenge and test your drifting skills.


A drift track or event can also provide you with the opportunity to meet other drifters, watch them perform, or compete with them. You can either join as a participant or as a spectator, depending on your preference and skill level. You can also enjoy the atmosphere, the music, the food, and the entertainment that a drift track or event offers.


Some of the drift tracks and events that you can find in the US are:


  • Willow Springs International Raceway



  • Road Atlanta



  • Englishtown Raceway Park



  • Evergreen Speedway



  • Irwindale Speedway



Drift Simulators and Games




A third way to practice drifting is to use a drift simulator or game. A drift simulator or game is a software program that simulates the physics and mechanics of drifting. It is usually played on a computer, a console, or a mobile device. It has various features, such as graphics, sounds, controls, modes, tracks, cars, or customization options, that enhance your drifting experience.


A drift simulator or game can also provide you with the convenience and comfort of drifting at home or anywhere else. You can practice drifting anytime and anywhere without spending money on gas, tires, or repairs. You can also learn from tutorials, guides, or videos that a drift simulator or game offers.


Some of the drift simulators and games that you can find are:


  • Assetto Corsa



  • Forza Horizon 4



  • Need for Speed Heat



  • CarX Drift Racing 2



  • Torque Drift



Conclusion and FAQs




In conclusion, drifting is a driving technique that involves intentionally oversteering the car to make it slide or skid through a corner. It is a form of motorsport that requires a lot of practice, precision, and control. It is also a lot of fun and can make you feel like a movie star or a racing legend. To drift a BMW M car, you need to choose the right car and setup, learn the basic techniques of drifting, and practice on a safe and legal location. You can also modify your car or add some accessories to enhance your performance and appearance. You can also use a drift simulator or game to practice drifting at home or anywhere else. Drifting is not something that you can learn overnight or master in one session. It takes a lot of time, patience, and dedication to improve your skills and style. It also takes a lot of respect and responsibility to avoid harming yourself, your car, or others. We hope that this article has given you a better understanding of the art of sliding in a German beast. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us. We would love to hear from you and help you with your drifting journey. Here are some frequently asked questions about drifting: What is the best BMW M car for drifting?




There is no definitive answer to this question, as different drivers may have different preferences and opinions. However, some of the factors that can affect the driftability of a BMW M car are the power, weight, balance, drivetrain, and features of the car. Generally speaking, a BMW M car that has more power, less weight, better balance, rear-wheel drive, and drift mode can be easier and more fun to drift.


Some of the BMW M cars that are considered to be good for drifting are the BMW M2 Competition, the BMW M3 Competition, the BMW M4 Competition, and the BMW M6 Competition. These cars have powerful engines, sporty transmissions, agile handling, and sophisticated technology. They also have rear-wheel drive and drift mode, which allow you to control and adjust the car's behavior and performance.


How much does it cost to drift a BMW M car?




The cost of drifting a BMW M car can vary depending on several factors, such as the model and condition of the car, the type and frequency of drifting, the location and duration of drifting, and the level of skill and experience of the driver. However, some of the common expenses that you may incur when drifting a BMW M car are:


  • Fuel: You may need to fill up your gas tank more often when drifting, as drifting consumes more fuel than normal driving.



  • Tires: You may need to replace your tires more frequently when drifting, as drifting wears out your tires faster than normal driving.



  • Brakes: You may need to replace your brake pads and rotors more frequently when drifting, as drifting puts more stress on your brakes than normal driving.



  • Suspension: You may need to replace or repair your suspension components more frequently when drifting, as drifting affects your suspension alignment and geometry more than normal driving.



  • Engine: You may need to service or tune your engine more frequently when drifting, as drifting generates more heat and pressure on your engine than normal driving.



  • Transmission: You may need to service or repair your transmission more frequently when drifting, as drifting causes more wear and tear on your transmission than normal driving.



  • Insurance: You may need to pay higher premiums or deductibles for your car insurance when drifting, as drifting increases the risk of accidents or damages to your car.



  • Legal fees: You may need to pay fines or penalties for drifting on public roads or private property without permission. You may also face charges for reckless driving, endangerment, or vandalism.



Therefore, you should always budget accordingly and plan ahead before you drift a BMW M car. You should also consider joining a drift school or course, a drift track or event, or a drift simulator or game to reduce your costs and risks of drifting. How can I improve my drifting skills?




The best way to improve your drifting skills is to practice regularly and consistently. You should also seek feedback and advice from other drifters, instructors, or experts who can help you identify and correct your mistakes and weaknesses. You should also watch and learn from videos, tutorials, or guides that can show you how to perform different drifting techniques and maneuvers.


Another way to improve your drifting skills is to challenge yourself and try new things. You should not limit yourself to one car, one track, one technique, or one style of drifting. You should experiment with different cars, tracks, techniques, and styles of drifting to expand your knowledge and experience. You should also participate in competitions or shows that can test your skills and push your limits.


Is drifting illegal?




Drifting is not illegal per se, but it depends on where, when, and how you do it. Drifting on public roads or private property without permission is illegal and can result in legal consequences or penalties. Drifting on designated locations that are approved and supervised by authorities or organizers is legal and can be done safely and legally.


Therefore, you should always check the rules and regulations of the location where you want to drift before you do it. You should also follow the instructions and guidelines of the authorities or organizers who are in charge of the location. You should also respect the rights and safety of other drivers, spectators, or property owners who are involved or affected by your drifting.


Is drifting dangerous?




Drifting can be dangerous if you do it irresponsibly or recklessly. Drifting can cause accidents or injuries to yourself, your passengers, other drivers, or bystanders. Drifting can also damage your car's tires, brakes, suspension, engine, and transmission. Drifting can also result in legal consequences or penalties if you do it on public roads or private property without permission.


Therefore, you should always drift responsibly and safely. You should only drift on designated locations that are approved and supervised by authorities or organizers. You should also follow the rules and regulations of drifting and respect the rights and safety of others. You should also wear proper protective gear and equipment when drifting, such as a helmet, a seat belt, a fire extinguisher, etc.


What are some tips for beginners who want to drift a BMW M car?




Some of the tips for beginners who want to drift a BMW M car are:


  • Start with a simple and easy technique, such as a handbrake turn, and master it before moving on to more complex and difficult ones.



  • Start with a slow and gentle speed, angle, and duration of drift, and gradually increase them as you gain more confidence and control.



  • Start with a wide and open space, such as a parking lot or a skid pad, and avoid obstacles, barriers, or other vehicles that can interfere with your drift.



  • Start with a stock or lightly modified car, and avoid making drastic changes to your car's setup or performance that can affect its balance or stability.



  • Start with a friend or a mentor who can guide you, support you, and motivate you throughout your learning process.



44f88ac181


1 view0 comments

Recent Posts

See All
bottom of page