Hey everyone, are you ready to become a drifting legend in GTA 5 Online? If you're anything like me, you've probably spent countless hours cruising around Los Santos, admiring the sleek rides and dreaming of mastering the art of the drift. Well, you're in luck, because today, we're diving deep into the world of GTA 5 Online's best drift cars, with a special focus on finding the cheapest options. Because, let's be real, who doesn't love saving some virtual bucks while tearing up the streets? We'll cover everything from the most drift-tastic vehicles to the best ways to customize them for optimal sideways action, ensuring you're ready to dominate those corners and impress your friends. So buckle up, grab your controller, and let's get started on this exciting journey to become the ultimate drift king or queen of Los Santos!

Understanding Drift Cars in GTA 5 Online

Alright, before we get to the good stuff, let's talk about what makes a drift car in GTA 5 Online tick. Not every car is built for sliding; some are just meant to go fast in a straight line. The perfect drift car needs a few key ingredients: a good power-to-weight ratio, a responsive handling system, and a suspension setup that encourages those sweet, sweet drifts. Think about it – you need enough power to break the tires loose, a chassis that allows for controlled slides, and the right suspension to keep you from spinning out of control every five seconds. A car's ability to drift effectively comes down to a combination of these factors, and finding the right balance is key. Then, how to make the cars drift? You can learn by practicing, you can also use handbrakes, throttle control, and counter-steering. It takes time and practice to master the art of drifting, but trust me, it's incredibly rewarding when you finally nail that perfect drift and hear the sweet sound of screeching tires!

When choosing a drift car in GTA 5 Online, you'll want to consider a few things. First, think about your budget. While some of the best drift cars are expensive, there are plenty of affordable options that can still deliver an amazing drifting experience. Second, consider your driving style. Do you prefer a car that's easy to control, or do you like something a bit more challenging? Knowing your preferences will help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect car for you. Third, don’t be afraid to experiment. Once you have a car you like, go to the Los Santos Customs. Experiment with different upgrades to see how they impact the car’s drifting abilities. This will let you find the right combination of performance and handling that fits your preferences. The best thing about GTA 5 Online is there are so many options to find the perfect car, and with the right upgrades, almost any car can drift!

Top Affordable Drift Cars in GTA 5 Online

Now, let's get to the main event: the best and cheapest drift cars in GTA 5 Online! Here are a few options that won't break the bank but will still get you sliding:

1. Futo GTX

The Futo GTX is a true legend in the GTA 5 Online drifting community. Based on the real-life Toyota Corolla AE86, it's lightweight, agile, and an absolute blast to slide around in. The best part? It's relatively inexpensive, making it a great choice for newcomers and budget-conscious players. You can find the Futo GTX at Southern San Andreas Super Autos, and you'll probably have some cash left over for upgrades. The Futo GTX is already great straight out of the box, but with a few upgrades, it can become an absolute beast. It offers amazing control when drifting, and with a little practice, you can get it to dance around corners effortlessly. With its responsive handling and reasonable price tag, the Futo GTX is a fantastic starting point for any aspiring drifter.

2. Sultan RS

The Sultan RS is another excellent option for those looking for an affordable drift car. This car is also based on a real-life vehicle, the Subaru Impreza. It's known for its balance of performance and style, and can be customized to your liking. The Sultan RS is a bit more expensive than the Futo GTX, but it's still relatively affordable, especially considering its performance potential. With its all-wheel-drive system and powerful engine, the Sultan RS can be a little challenging to drift at first. But with a few tweaks, you can make this car a drift machine, capable of handling even the trickiest turns. The Sultan RS has great potential for drifting and is capable of reaching high speeds. Plus, the Sultan RS has a cool look. You can find this car at a number of places, including Benny's Original Motor Works, where you can modify it with a wide range of options.

3. Karin 190z

If you are a fan of classic looks, then the Karin 190z is the car for you. Inspired by the classic Datsun 240z, the Karin 190z is a sleek and stylish car that's also a surprisingly capable drifter. The 190z is a bit more expensive than the Futo GTX, but still reasonably priced. Its rear-wheel-drive configuration and powerful engine make it a joy to drift, especially once you get the hang of it. And it can be customized. You can find the Karin 190z at Legendary Motorsport. You will have a great time drifting with this vehicle. Its retro style will make you stand out from the crowd.

4. Annis Elegy RH8

The Annis Elegy RH8 is a bit of a special case. It's a high-performance sports car, but you can get one for free! That's right, completely free if you link your Rockstar Games Social Club account to your GTA 5 Online account. The RH8 isn't specifically designed for drifting, but with some modifications and the right driving technique, it can become a very capable drifter. Its powerful engine and rear-wheel-drive configuration make it a good base for drifting. The RH8 is definitely worth checking out, especially since it doesn't cost anything. But because the RH8 isn't designed for drifting, it may not be your first choice. But don't let that stop you from having fun! Since it's free, you can try it out and see if you like it without wasting any money.

Customizing Your Drift Car for Maximum Performance

Once you've chosen your new drift car, it's time to head to Los Santos Customs or Benny's Original Motor Works to get it tuned for optimal drifting performance. Now, there are tons of things you can do to soup up your ride, so let's break down the most important upgrades:

1. Engine Upgrades

More power means more tire-shredding fun! Upgrading your engine is a must-do. This will give you the extra oomph you need to break those tires loose and maintain a drift. Consider things like engine tuning, ECU upgrades, and turbocharging. The higher the level of the engine, the better, but don’t worry if you can’t afford the best upgrades right away. Even basic engine upgrades can make a big difference in how well your car drifts.

2. Suspension

Suspension upgrades are critical for drift cars. Lowering your car's suspension will lower the center of gravity, which helps with stability and cornering. Stiffer suspension will also improve your car's responsiveness and allow for more precise control. Don’t go too crazy, but a good suspension setup can transform your car's handling. Play around with different suspension settings to find the best balance for your driving style.

3. Tires

Tires are the only things connecting your car to the road, so they play a huge role in drifting. Wider tires generally provide more grip, while narrower tires will make it easier to initiate and maintain a drift. Experiment with different tire compounds and widths to find what works best for your car and driving style. Also, consider the tire pressure. Lowering the pressure can increase the contact patch and improve grip.

4. Transmission

Upgrading your transmission can improve acceleration and overall performance. A better transmission can help you get the car sideways easier, and also help you control the drift. The faster your car can shift gears, the better you’ll be able to manage the drift. You’ll want to look for upgrades that will provide quick shifts.

5. Brakes

While not as critical as other upgrades, improving your brakes can help you control your drifts. Better brakes will allow you to slow down quickly and adjust your speed, which is crucial for controlling your drifts. Consider upgrading your brake pads, rotors, and calipers for improved performance. The better your brakes, the better you’ll be able to control your car.

Essential Drifting Techniques in GTA 5 Online

Alright, you've got your car, it's tricked out, now it's time to hit the streets and start drifting. Here are some essential drifting techniques to master:

1. The Handbrake Turn

This is a classic. Use the handbrake while turning to initiate a drift. This will lock up your rear wheels, causing the car to slide. As you’re sliding, ease off the handbrake and use the throttle to control the angle of the drift. Practice this technique to get a feel for how your car reacts.

2. Power Oversteer

Power oversteer involves using the throttle to break the rear tires loose. Accelerate aggressively while turning to initiate a drift. Control the drift with your steering and throttle. This technique is more effective in cars with more power.

3. Clutch Kick

This more advanced technique involves using the clutch to suddenly transfer power to the rear wheels, causing the car to slide. This technique is tricky and requires practice to master.

4. Counter-Steering

This is essential for controlling the drift. When the rear of your car starts to slide, turn your steering wheel in the direction of the slide. This will help you maintain control and keep the car sideways. Without counter-steering, you'll likely spin out.

5. Throttle Control

Using the throttle to control the angle of the drift is a must-know. Applying more throttle will make the drift wider, while reducing the throttle will tighten the drift. Learning to master the throttle is critical.

Drifting Tips and Tricks

Here are some extra tips and tricks to help you along the way:

• Practice, Practice, Practice: The more time you spend behind the wheel, the better you’ll get. Find an open area and experiment with different techniques.
• Find the Right Surface: Drifting is easier on certain surfaces. Look for smooth roads and open spaces. Try parking lots, industrial areas, or highways. These are great places to practice.
• Adjust Your Camera Angle: Experiment with different camera angles to find what works best for you. Some people prefer the first-person view, while others like the third-person view.
• Watch the Mini-Map: Keep an eye on the mini-map to anticipate turns and obstacles. This can help you plan your drifts. Also, make sure that you are aware of your surroundings.
• Customize Your Controls: Experiment with different control settings to find what feels most comfortable. Adjust your steering and throttle sensitivity.
• Watch Other Drifters: Watch videos of other players drifting to learn new techniques and get inspiration. You can learn from their experiences.
• Join a Drifting Crew: Finding a group of people who are into drifting can be fun. You can share tips, and compete.

Conclusion: Start Drifting Today!

So there you have it, guys! We've covered the best cheap drift cars in GTA 5 Online, how to customize them, and the essential techniques you need to become a drifting master. Don't be afraid to experiment, have fun, and most importantly, practice! Get out there, start sliding, and show Los Santos what you've got. Remember, the journey to becoming a drift king or queen takes time, but with dedication and a little bit of practice, you'll be tearing up the streets in no time. Now go out there and show the streets of Los Santos what you've got!