Mastering Drifting in GTA 5 - Ultimate Guide for Winning Street Races and Drift Meets
If you want to dominate the streets of Los Santos and crush your competition in street races, learning how to drift in GTA 5 is essential. Drift racing is a skill that can make or break your chances of victory, especially in tight turns and intense car meets.
With the right technique and the best drift car in GTA 5 Story Mode, you'll be the one everyone fears in a race. But it's not just about speed – it's about control, precision, and knowing when to unleash your drift power.
Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a newcomer, these tips will help you boost your drifting game and get ahead of the pack.
Why Drifting in GTA 5 is Crucial for Success
Before we dive into the how-to and techniques, let’s first understand why drifting is such a valuable skill in GTA 5. Street races are intense and require quick reflexes, but drifting in GTA 5 allows you to maintain high speeds while effortlessly maneuvering through sharp corners.
Plus, drifting isn’t just for races. It’s a fun, stylish way to take on the streets of Los Santos – whether you're cruising through the city or showing off in a drift car meet.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Drift in GTA 5
Drifting requires a blend of control, timing, and finesse. Let’s break it down into simple, actionable steps that you can practice and perfect over time.
Step 1: Approach the Turn with Speed
To start your drift, you’ll need to approach the turn with some speed. Begin by accelerating (RT/R2 or W key) into the corner. It’s important to keep your throttle engaged throughout the drift, but you don’t need to slam it all the way down – moderate acceleration will keep you in control while maintaining your momentum.
Step 2: Use the E-brake to Initiate the Drift
As you approach the turn, tap the E-brake (RB/R1/Spacebar) to help break traction on your rear tires. This is the critical moment for initiating the drift. Be sure not to press the regular brakes (LT/L2/S key), as they will cause your car to lose speed and throw off the drift.
Step 3: Guide Your Car with the Analog Stick
As your car starts sliding, countersteer to maintain control. Use the left analog stick to guide the back end of your car. If your car is sliding right, move the stick left, and if it’s sliding left, move the stick right. This movement keeps your car from spinning out of control and allows you to hold the drift through the turn.
Step 4: Release the E-brake and Let the Car Accelerate
Once your car is in the right position, stop tapping the E-brake and allow the car to accelerate as normal. By now, you should be in a controlled slide, allowing you to complete the turn with minimal loss of speed.
Tips for Perfecting Your Drift
Drifting takes practice, and with these extra tips, you’ll get even better at it:
●Manual Car Lowering: Want to get the perfect stance for drifting? Try manually lowering your car by shooting near your tires. This will reduce the car’s height slightly, giving you better control during drifts. Just make sure not to hit the tires directly – aim near them instead.
●Avoid Brake Upgrades: Brake upgrades can make drifting harder. If you’re serious about drifting, consider removing them, as they can interfere with your ability to maintain a smooth slide.
●Bulletproof Tires: While they’re great for durability, bulletproof tires can prevent you from lowering your car manually. They also don’t help when it comes to drifting – so if you're focusing on drift racing, consider removing them.
The Best Drift Cars in GTA 5 Story Mode
Not all cars in GTA 5 are created equal when it comes to drifting. Some vehicles are simply more suited to the demands of drift racing. Here are a few best drift cars in GTA 5 story mode that you should consider adding to your garage:
Car Model | Pros | Cons |
Karin Futo | Lightweight, nimble, and perfect for tight corners. | Lacks top speed compared to others. |
Bravado Banshee 900R | High speed and excellent handling. | A bit harder to control in sharp turns. |
Dewbauchee Rapid GT | Great all-around car, well-suited for both street racing and drifting. | Not as agile as the Futo. |
Willard Faction | Classic muscle car with a lot of power and drift potential. | Large and slower compared to others. |
These cars have a reputation for offering fantastic handling and drift capabilities, making them ideal for those who want to master drifting in GTA 5.
Pro Tips for Advanced Drifting Techniques
Once you’ve got the basic drifting mechanics down, try these advanced techniques to take your drifting to the next level:
●Throttle Control: To maintain a smooth drift, you’ll need to use the throttle to control your car’s rotation. Tapping the throttle during a drift will keep the car from sliding out too much, while easing off it will help you stay in control.
●Perfecting Your Entry: Timing your entry into the turn is key. Start your drift just a bit before the corner, as starting too early or too late can cause you to lose control. Practice makes perfect, so keep refining your timing.
●Drift with Style: Once you're comfortable with basic drifting, experiment with different styles. Try to drift through tight spaces, around cones, or in parking garages to improve your precision.
Conclusion
Mastering drifting in GTA 5 is one of the most rewarding skills you can learn. Not only will it give you the edge in races, but it will also make you a force to be reckoned with in drift car meets. By following our step-by-step guide, practicing regularly, and using the best drift cars available, you’ll soon be drifting like a pro.
Remember, drifting is all about control and timing – get those right, and the streets of Los Santos will be yours to conquer. Whether you're taking on other racers or just showing off your skills, you’ll be the one they talk about in every car meet.