RC Drift Cars: The Ultimate Guide to Models

One of the most exciting things that you can do with your radio-controlled vehicle is drift. It’s fun, difficult, and recreates a full-size racing maneuver that sends fans into a frenzy. RC drift cars aren’t that hard to do once you learn about the equipment, surfaces, and driving techniques. And sure, manufacturers specifically design remote-controlled automobiles as RC drift cars, but anyone can also turn any other streetcar into a drifter

For those who are unaware, drifting is a series of controlled slides that enable a full-scale race car (or radio control car) to navigate a track’s curves and corners faster than the traditional method (all four wheels gripping the surface).

The driver purposely oversees, which makes the tires lose adherence, causing the car to spin out or slide. By braking, accelerating and counter-steering with impeccable timing, a good driver can keep those slides in check and use them to slingshot quickly through corners.

What is a Radio-Controlled Drifting Car

RC Drifting started from good old Touring RC and has built a new sport. Any on-road (or touring cars as they are sometimes called) RC drift cars that are modified to perform better on drifting tracks are considered Remote Controlled Drifters.

The one significant difference between them is the tires. RC Drift Cars on the other hand utilize hard plastic tires that are zero grip and can never grip, while the Touring Cars work with rubber tires that grip very well.

For newcomers, we strongly suggest an RTR 4WD sliding car kit. A 4WD is far better to learn and practice, and while a 2WD drifter will give a better performance, it will take some skill to keep them in a good drift. If you’re looking for good drift cars to start with, 4WD models are the way to go. Once you’re familiar with the basics, we can recommend Professional Kits.

Drifting is really tricky, and if you choose a really High-End Kit for your beginner, you may just not have any fun at all. Building these can also be quite expensive. Perhaps this is more appropriate that teaches you the fundamentals before you go onto the deep end. If you know what you are doing, we always recommend getting a kit according to your expertise level.

1. Tamiya TT-02D Skid Spec

Tamiya TT-02D Drift Spec 1/10 scale shaft-driven as 4WD RC drift cars the low center of gravity bathtub-type frame enhances stability when drifting. They mount drifting tires on matte-finish metal-plated wheels up front and 24mm to the rear for grip during controlled slides. Suspension CVA oil-filled dampers adjustable on each of the four wheels and help fine-tune handling characteristics.

A Type 540 Sport-Tuned motor is also included in the car and full ball-bearings for smoother operation and long life. The gear ratio is user-adjustable if a driver wants to tune performance to taste. It also comes with an aluminum motor heat sink to keep things cool during longer runs. ESC sold separately.

2. HPI Sport 3 BMW E30 Driftworks

There is arguably no better rabble of drifting European sports cars in all of motor sports. We have combined the classic Autosport look of the original E30 M3 with high-revving, sideways-moving slide action! This HPI Sport 3 Drift includes a wild BMW M3 body with wide body wheel arches, a front air dam, and big rear wing (to match the street vibe).

It’s also sporting replica, quad-finish Work Emotion XC8 wheels, shod with licensed (for size and sticker detail) Proxxes tires by Toyo for serious scale looks, so it’s ready to shred the sliding scene as soon as you open the blister pack!

With the iconic Driftworks and its perfectly proportioned bodywork, this fully licensed, realistic BMW M3 replica means business when it comes to carnage!

3. HPI E10 Nissan Skyline GT-R ‘Fail Crew’

The HPI E10 is an entry-level, ready-to-run (RTR) chassis that gives both novice and veteran drivers what they need to accomplish smooth, controlled drifts. This version is a homage to the Nissan Skyline GT-R – a globally adored legend in motorsport and car culture, especially in drifting circles.

The body shell is dressed in detailed graphics that pay homage to the Fail Crew’s distinct disposition. It often blends strapping graphics, graffiti-like patterns, and a combative skiding vibe. It is all because of its 4WD (i.e., four-wheel-drive) capabilities, adjustable suspension, and specially designed oversteer tires. You can slide and have realistic operations on just about any smooth surface with this remote-control car.

4. MST RMX 2.0 S Skid Car

One of the best-selling 1/10-scale rear-wheel-drive (RWD) RC drift cars, the MST RMX 2.0 S is great for advanced Remote Control enthusiasts, or those looking to step up their game in the tracks! It has phenomenal balance, tunability, and calm composure on road or track.

RMX 2.0 S is a platform that emphasizes performance as well as a premium feel. This chassis has the adjustability and precision you need to dial it in whether you’re a casual drifter or competitive driver.

5. Sakura D4 AWD RC Oversteer Car

It’s intended as an affordable performance platform, designed for those looking for a 1/10-scale all-wheel-drive (AWD) Remote-Control skid car that won’t break the bank. It has an ideal balance, customization options, and smooth power delivery.

The D4 AWD is an excellent choice for those just starting out as well as pros. Its belt-driven AWD arrangement is incredibly stable and offers tons of control which means you’ll be slaying a variety of power slide techniques with ease.

6. Yokomo YD-2Z RC Sliding Car

The YD-2Z is a luxury level RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) Radio Control vehicle for 1/10 scale and prepared for professional drifting. Focusing on the high-end user, the Z version is part of the YZ-2 range and offers upgraded components.

It comes with a new optimized design for reduced weight and enhanced performance, handling and durability. The specification of the YD-2Z is known for its smooth handling and high-quality component; thus, it is a serious Radio Controlled drift kit for those who want to take the track.

7. Redcat Lightning EPX Drifting Remote Control Car

Redcat Lightning EPX Drift – This is a low-budget electric-powered sliding car made by the adventurous, sparky guys from Redcat, specifically for those getting into the world of RC drift Cars. Front bumper features a lightweight plastic, as the Lightning EPX Drift, with its flashy colors, 4WD drivetrain and drift-tinged wheels, offers quick handling and sliding straight out of the box.

8. Exceed RC MadDrift King

If you want a low-cost car which is high-performance then the Exceed Remote Control MadDrift King is a 1/10-scale electric Radio Control drifting vehicle designed for enthusiasts. It is designed for people who want to have the fun of drifting on a user-friendly and resilient platform. This is rear-wheel drive (RWD) which is perfect for speed sliding and slicing.

9. Yokomo DPR 1/10 Power Slide Car

With an adjustable aluminum chassis as the base, the Yokomo DPR160 is a 1/10-scale skid car designed with racing and customization in mind. The DPR inherits Yokomo’s design concept from their Skid Package series, transverse layout, mounds of adjustability and a persistent focus on precision and responsiveness. Excellent for serious racers or hobbyists looking to practice their drifting, with a more refined and reliable setup.

10. Yokomo Master Oversteer MD 2.0

The Yokomo Master MD 2.0 is a high-performing, 1/10-scale rear-wheel-drive (RWD) RC sliding car. It is designed to deliver high-end performance, precision, control, and durability for serious skid enthusiasts.

Diving deeper into the original MD series with the 2.0 as it brings improved adjustability and more polished handling traits. Designed for the highly competitive world of drifting, yet also for the weekend pilot. It features Yokomo’s with the latest design and components to give awesome performance on the track.

Some Major Features of Best RC Drifting Vehicles