How to Drift in a Production Car

Contrary to other forms of motorsport, drifting doesn't require all that much equipment, or even space, to get started.

- Matt Crisara

DRIFTING IS ONE OF THE MOST SPECTACular forms of high-performance driving. It's also difficult to master. Toyota Racing recently hosted an event at the Old Bridge Township Raceway in Englishtown, New Jersey, to teach drivers how to properly slide its rear-wheel-drive GR86 sports car.

All you need are a rear-wheel drive car, tires, and a safe (and legal) practice area where you won't be annoying anyone. Here are the of how to drift, making you able to fundamentals slay tires just like I did.

STEP NO.1 Initiate the Slide

Modern tires are designed to stay planted to the road during cornering. Behind the wheel of Toyota's GR86, I was using nearly all of the power available in first gear to break the tires loose. It's important to note that we were in a controlled environment, a race track, and not doing this on public roads. This safe and isolated setting was perfect for demonstrating the differences between understeer and oversteer: Drifting is simply a delicate balance between the two.