Why the Nissan 350Z Excels at Drifting
The 350Z, produced from 2003 to 2009, was built with performance in mind. Even from the factory, it has the essential ingredients for a drift car: a rear-wheel-drive layout, a balanced chassis, and a strong aftermarket scene. Here’s why it’s one of the most popular drift cars out there:
✅ Pros: What Makes the 350Z a Great Drift Car?
1. Rear-Wheel Drive & Well-Balanced Chassis
Drifting requires a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) car, and the 350Z delivers. Plus, its near 50/50 weight distribution provides great handling and predictability when sliding.
2. Reliable & Powerful VQ35 Engine
The VQ35DE (287-306 hp) and VQ35HR (306 hp) engines provide plenty of power to get sideways. They’re also known for being reliable when well-maintained, making them a solid choice for repeated abuse on the track.
3. Strong Aftermarket Support
From angle kits and coilovers to limited-slip differentials (LSDs) and turbo kits, the 350Z has a massive aftermarket following. This makes it easy to upgrade and tailor it to your drifting needs.
4. Affordable & Widely Available
You can still find a used 350Z for a reasonable price, making it a great option for beginners who want a capable drift car without breaking the bank.
5. Factory Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) on Some Models
Some Touring and Track models come with a VLSD (viscous limited-slip differential), which is much better for drifting than an open diff. If yours doesn’t have one, swapping in an LSD or a welded diff is a must.
Where the 350Z Falls Short – The Cons
Of course, no car is perfect. While the 350Z is a great drift car, there are a few downsides to consider:
❌ 1. Weak Stock Differential (VLSD Wears Out Fast)
The factory VLSD isn’t the best for long-term drifting—it wears out quickly. Many drifters opt for a welded differential or aftermarket LSD for consistent slides.
❌ 2. The VQ35 Engine Runs Hot
The VQ35 engines are known for running hot under hard driving, so upgrading the cooling system (radiator, oil cooler, fans) is a must for serious drifting.
❌ 3. Heavy Compared to Some Drift Cars
At around 3,200 lbs, the 350Z is a bit heavier than cars like the Mazda Miata or Nissan S13/S14, which means it requires more power to keep momentum in a drift. Weight reduction mods can help.
❌ 4. Expensive Aftermarket Parts Compared to Older Nissans
While the aftermarket is strong, 350Z parts can be pricier than S-chassis (240SX) parts, especially when it comes to angle kits, body panels, and performance upgrades.
Final Verdict: Is the 350Z a Good Drift Car?
Absolutely. The Nissan 350Z is a fantastic drift car, especially for beginners looking for an affordable and reliable RWD platform. It has good power, solid handling, and a strong aftermarket scene, making it a top choice for anyone getting into drifting.
If you’re thinking about building a 350Z for drifting, start with coilovers, an angle kit, an LSD or welded diff, and cooling upgrades—then hit the track and start sliding!
Would you drift a 350Z, or do you have another favorite drift platform? Let me know in the comments!
Let me know if you want any tweaks or additional details!