How to Drift an IS200: Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your Technique

The Lexus IS200, a sleek and sporty sedan, holds a special place in the hearts of drift enthusiasts. Its rear-wheel drive configuration, coupled with a responsive engine and a relatively lightweight chassis, makes it a fantastic platform for learning and mastering the art of drifting. But how do you actually go about turning this everyday car into a sideways spectacle? This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to conquer the art of drifting your IS200.

Setting the Stage: Preparation is Key

Before unleashing the drift demon within your IS200, it’s vital to ensure you have the right tools and knowledge. This includes:

1. Safety First: Drifting is inherently risky, so safety should be your top priority. Invest in a proper helmet, racing suit, and fire extinguisher. If you’re practicing on a track, ensure it’s a designated area for drifting with proper safety measures in place.

2. The Right Tires: Drifting requires tires designed for the specific demands of sideways driving. Opt for tires with a softer compound and a directional tread pattern for optimal grip and control.

3. Understanding Your Car: Familiarize yourself with your IS200’s handling characteristics, including its power delivery, steering response, and braking capabilities. This understanding will be invaluable as you start to practice drifting.

4. Finding the Right Location: Choose a safe and controlled environment for your initial practice sessions. An empty parking lot or a dedicated drift track are ideal options. Avoid public roads or areas with heavy traffic.

Mastering the Fundamentals: Essential Techniques

Drifting isn’t just about throwing the car sideways; it’s about controlled chaos. Here are the fundamental techniques you need to master:

1. The Initial Break: Before initiating a drift, slow down to a manageable speed. This allows you to control the car’s momentum and reduces the risk of an uncontrolled spin.

2. The Throttle Input: As you approach the desired corner, gently apply the throttle, ensuring the engine is revving slightly above idle. This provides the initial power required for the drift.

3. Steering and Counter-Steering: Turn the steering wheel in the direction of the desired drift. As the car begins to slide, apply counter-steering in the opposite direction to maintain control and prevent the car from spinning out.

4. The Throttle Control: Once the car is in a drift, you need to manage the throttle carefully. Apply a controlled amount of throttle to maintain the drift angle and prevent the car from losing traction.

5. The Exit: To end the drift, gradually reduce the throttle and steer the car back into a straight line. This will help you regain control and exit the drift smoothly.

The Art of Fine-Tuning: Enhancing Your Drift

Once you have a grasp of the fundamental techniques, you can start refining your drift skills:

1. Clutch Kick: A clutch kick is a technique used to initiate a drift by momentarily engaging and disengaging the clutch, creating a power surge that helps the car break traction.

2. Handbrake Turn: This technique involves using the handbrake to initiate the drift. While effective, it can be more challenging to control, and it’s best practiced in a controlled environment.

3. E-Brake Drift: Similar to the handbrake turn, the E-brake drift involves using the electronic parking brake to initiate the drift. This technique is often easier to control than the traditional handbrake turn.

4. Power Oversteer: This technique involves using the throttle to induce oversteer, causing the rear wheels to lose traction and initiate the drift.

5. Drifting with a Passenger: Once you’re comfortable drifting solo, you can try it with a passenger. This adds an extra layer of complexity, as you need to account for the weight shift and potential for distraction.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Drift Techniques

As you progress, you can explore more advanced drifting techniques:

1. Tandem Drifting: This involves two or more cars drifting side-by-side, creating a visually stunning spectacle. It requires precise timing, communication, and a high level of skill.

2. Drifting on a Track: Drifting on a dedicated track allows you to push your limits and refine your skills in a safe and controlled environment.

3. Car Modifications: While not strictly necessary, modifications can enhance your IS200’s drift capabilities. This could include suspension upgrades, a limited-slip differential, and engine tuning.

The Final Chapter: Mastering the Drift

Drifting is a continuous learning process. It requires dedication, practice, and a constant desire to improve. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.

Embrace the Challenge: Drifting is a thrilling and rewarding experience. By mastering the fundamental techniques and constantly refining your skills, you can unleash the drift demon within your IS200 and become a true master of the art.

What You Need to Know

1. What are the best tires for drifting an IS200?

For optimal drift performance, consider tires like the Yokohama Advan Neova AD08R, Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R, or Falken Azenis FK510. These tires offer a good balance of grip and responsiveness, making them ideal for controlled drifting.

2. Is it necessary to modify my IS200 for drifting?

While modifications can enhance your IS200’s drift capabilities, they are not strictly necessary for beginners. Focus on mastering the fundamental techniques first. Once you’re comfortable, you can explore modifications like suspension upgrades or a limited-slip differential.

3. What is the best way to learn drifting?

The best way to learn drifting is through a combination of practice, instruction, and a safe environment. Start with practicing in a controlled environment like an empty parking lot. Consider taking a drifting course from a qualified instructor for professional guidance and feedback.

4. What is the most important aspect of drifting?

The most important aspect of drifting is safety. Always prioritize your safety and that of others by practicing in a safe and controlled environment and wearing appropriate safety gear.

5. What is the best way to improve my drifting skills?

Consistent practice and feedback are key to improving your drifting skills. Seek out opportunities to practice regularly, and don’t be afraid to seek feedback from experienced drivers or instructors.