The Best Cars For Drifting

Summary

• Drift Pro Tires unlock a new handling model for all cars in drifting events, simplifying the drifting mechanic for players.
• Selecting a car with 20-40% drift handling provides a solid starting point for drift events in Need for Speed Unbound.
• Need for Speed Unbound offers a variety of well-balanced cars for drifting, like the Subaru BRZ and Nissan 180SX, suitable for high-skill events.

The twenty-second game in the Need for Speed franchise has been released on current-generation consoles and has received high praise from fans of the genre as well as returning players for the new features and mechanics that have been introduced. Need for Speed Unbound hits the scene as another radical overhaul of the game’s core structure adding new racing events, optional visual effects, and the ability to create a racing avatar.

However, the vehicle makes the racer, and players will need top-of-the-line cars to cut it in the competitive racing scene. Specifically, the drift events players will take part in will need vehicles that perform the best in that category. With this in mind, players will no doubt be looking for the best cars for drifting in Need for Speed Unbound.

Updated on December 31, 2024, by Vlad Mazanko: Staying true to its live-service model, Need for Speed Unbound has received nine content updates (known as Volumes) over the course of two years. The latest update, Vol. 9, marked the conclusion of the game’s extended post-launch support — longer than any previous entry in the series — and came with several surprises, including the introduction of motorbikes and new game modes. For drifting enthusiasts, the standout update was Vol. 7, which focused on drifting, bringing entirely new drift physics and dedicated drifting events exclusively available in online mode.

To get started, players need to purchase a special performance part, the Drift Pro Tires, which unlocks a new universal handling model for any car. Once installed, these tires override the ability to manually adjust grip/drift balance, applying a standardized drifting mechanic across all vehicles equipped with them for use in Drift Pro Events. This means that the choice of car becomes less critical, allowing players to enjoy the new handling system with any vehicle.

However, for fans of the single-player career mode, the new Drift Pro mode and handling model aren’t available, making the choice of a suitable vehicle for traditional drift events more important. To make things easier, players should pay attention to car handling stats in the autoshow when buying a new vehicle. Opting for a car with 20% to 40% drift handling offers a solid starting point for drift events. Additionally, players can further fine-tune a car’s handling in the dedicated menu, even transforming grip-focused cars into drift-ready machines with the right adjustments.

20

Chevrolet Camaro SS 350 (1967)

A Solid Entry Point For Drifting Newcomers

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 116 mph
• 0-60 Time: 8.0s

The 1967 Chevrolet Camaro SS 350 is a solid choice for any drift newcomer, providing an affordable and reliable foundation for turning this vehicle into a powerful drifting muscle setup. Starting in B class, this vehicle may lack the speed and acceleration needed for more extensive slides, but investing in its performance parts can help. This car has appeared in many NFS titles and beyond, making it a classic choice for long-term racing enthusiasts.

Alternatively, players can choose the Dodge Charger R/T as one of their first and most affordable drift rides in Need for Speed Unbound. This muscle car shares almost the same behavior on the road as the Camaro SS when properly tuned for drift events.

19

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR (2008)

Powerful A-Class Event Vehicle

• Setup: AWD
• Top Speed: 157 mph
• 0-60 Time: 5.2s

Mitsubishi’s line of vehicles is a mix of style and performance that is very popular in racing communities both in and out of the professional scene. In Need for Speed Unbound, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is an available vehicle priced at forty-eight thousand and sitting at B-tier with stock parts.

The Evolution X also comes with a strong base top speed of 157 mph and a five-second 0-60. Despite its initial grip setup, with appropriate tuning, it can have a big impact on any drift track. Alternatively, players can choose an older model, the Lancer Evolution IX, which is almost as good for drifting as this newer iteration.

18

Ford Crown Victoria EN144 (2008)

Great Turning Potential

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 135 mph
• 0-60 Time: 9.2s

The Ford Crown Victoria is a great vehicle from the motor to the muffler. Made famous as the stock car for most law enforcement agencies, these are vehicles that show up in real life and in the majority of racing games. The Crown Vic packs a massive amount of power, making it suitable for several setups.

Outfitting the Crown Vic for drifting doesn’t take much, as its turning potential suits it from the start. At a base price of thirty thousand, it’s worth a little elbow grease to pull out some top-notch abilities from the car. Note that at one point in career mode, players get a chance to win a pre-tuned variant of this car with a wide body kit and a unique livery. All they have to do from there is tweak this custom car’s handling to optimize it for drifting.

17

BMW M3 Evolution II E30 (1988)

Good All-Around Performance

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 151 mph
• 0-60 Time: 6.3s

A fusion of style and speed, the BMW M3 Evolution II is a rare sight to behold on the street but is more than capable of holding its own and turning corners with efficient and controlled drifts. This classic sports car is beloved by many racing enthusiasts, previously appearing in many other NFS entries throughout the years.

With a strong setup and a close eye to detailed tuning, the M3 will surprise players who decide to give the vehicle a chance. While not as stacked as the rest of the cars on this list, the BMW M3 Evolution II will turn some heads and fill some pockets in Need for Speed Unbound.

16

Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 (2014)

Powerful Acceleration

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 186 mph
• 0-60 Time: 4.5s

Dodge has a long history of racing both on official tracks and in street-level competitions. While not represented thoroughly in the drift scene, the Dodge Challenger does have a presence, hitting curves across the asphalt and keeping pace with some of the top contenders in the sport.

With a top speed of over 180 miles per hour, the acceleration of the Challenger is more than enough to hit a turn with maximum velocity and keep a smooth glide with the right build. In truth, any modern powerful Dodge can be purchased instead of the Challenger (such as the Charger SRT Hellcat or SRT Viper), offering that same monster acceleration and muscle handling that are ideal for drifts.

15

Honda S2000 AP2 (2009)

Great Compact Construction

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 150 mph
• 0-60 Time: 5.9s

The Honda S200 is a great all-around vehicle with a powerful punch wrapped in a small package of pristine steel and acceleration. Thanks to its size, the Honda 2000 can have a big impact on the street in a number of events but can shine bright in drifting.

Able to hit a fast top speed, especially with the right parts equipped, the Honda 2000 can slide around a turn and get back on the straightaway at the driver’s discretion. With a few performance upgrades, this could be one of the most productive vehicles for drifting in the A+ class, scoring wonderful amounts of prize points, especially on the narrow mountain peaks in countryside areas.

14

BMW M4 Coupé LCI F82 (2018)

Solid Performance In All Factors

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 179 mph
• 0-60 Time: 4.5s

BMW’s line of vehicles is not well known for their racing capabilities. However, they are seen more often in drift competitions for their speed and control. The BMW M4 Coupe has a sleek modern design similar to most modern cars, which sets it apart from other BMW vehicles.

In Need for Speed Unbound, the M4 Coupe performs exceptionally in multiple events but will reach its full potential in the drift category. Having a top speed of 186 miles per hour, the M4 Coupe has superb handling and a 20 percent drift handling value that makes it perfect for hitting corners.

13

Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition Z34 (2019)

Exclusive Modernized Edition Of A Legendary Drift Icon

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 175 mph
• 0-60 Time: 4.8s

Yet another Nissan with exceptional drifting potential, the Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition builds upon the legacy of the 350Z, a staple in the drifting community. As the “younger sibling,” it’s no surprise that the 370Z performs just as impressively, sharing much of the same build with a few notable improvements.

What makes the Heritage Edition particularly interesting is its limited-production status — only 1,000 units were built and sold. While it doesn’t feature major performance or handling upgrades aside from an improved transmission and clutch, the model boasts a variety of aesthetic enhancements. These include redesigned exterior lights, smoked chrome door handles, and the exclusive Chicane Yellow Heritage Edition color with black stripe decals.

Bringing the 370Z Heritage Edition, equipped with a custom drifting build, to the track in NFS Unbound not only showcases its impressive potential but also reflects the driver’s appreciation for rare and exclusive vehicles, making a bold statement while dominating the competition.

12

Mazda RX-8 Spirit R R3 (2011)

A Reliable Drifting Setup You Can’t Go Wrong With

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 141 mph
• 0-60 Time: 6.5s

While Mazda may not have the same deep connection to the drifting scene as Nissan, some of its models, such as the legendary RX-7 and the equally notable RX-8 Spirit R, are among the top choices for drifting in NFS Unbound and beyond. The RX-8 Spirit R is almost identical to the base facelifted RX-8 model from 2004 but stands out as the final limited-edition version of this iconic vehicle. It includes a few performance tweaks along with exclusive interior and exterior details that enhance its appeal as a recognizable sports car.

A staple of the Need for Speed series, the RX-8 rose to fame in Most Wanted as Mia’s car, gaining a loyal fan base. While it may not be as synonymous with drifting as the RX-7, the RX-8 Spirit R’s potential shines with the right tuning in NFS Unbound, offering impressive sliding performance and precise control through its classic RWD setup.

11

Buick Regal Grand National GNX (1987)

Great Foundation For Surprising Performance

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 160 mph
• 0-60 Time: 4.6s

To maximize the number of points scored in drifting events in Need for Speed Unbound, players will need to optimize the amount of slide without losing control of their vehicle. A vehicle that can quickly rev up to top speed and fishtail on command is therefore ideal for such events, and players could do a lot worse than the Buick Grand National GNX.

The Grand National GNX is a tuned-up Grand National with more power than its predecessor. In the game, the GNX has a top speed of 185 miles per hour with a 20 percent drift value. With the acceleration of the GNX, drivers will reach the perfect speed right before hitting a corner, faster than most of the other great drifting cars in the game.

10

Nissan Fairlady 240ZG S30 (1971)

Iconic Retro Vehicle With Outstanding Potential For Controlled Slides

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 131 mph
• 0-60 Time: 7.5s

Emerging from the era when Nissan was still known as Datsun, the Nissan Fairlady 240ZG is an iconic vehicle with a storied legacy, often linked to the drifting scene due to its exceptional handling capabilities. In Need for Speed Unbound, the Fairlady 240ZG proves to be an excellent choice for a drifting setup, despite its modest stock stats. With the right investments in upgrades and fine-tuning, players can transform this classic into one of the best drifting cars in the game. Its ability to smoothly chain slides between corners makes it easy to rack up multipliers for impressive scores.

The car’s distinct retro aesthetics further enhance its appeal. Its sleek, recognizable silhouette, complete with large front headlights, exudes timeless charm. Additionally, the game offers a variety of visual customization options, allowing tuner enthusiasts to create unique, head-turning designs that leave a lasting impression.

9

Nissan Skyline GT-R V·Spec R34 (1993)

Great Combination Of Speed And Control

• Setup: AWD
• Top Speed: 155 mph
• 0-60 Time: 5.2s

The Nissan Skyline is a fan favorite in the racing community and car enthusiasts. The Japanese-made car rose to a higher tier of popularity in the Fast and Furious movie series, where it was featured multiple times. The GTR is also a favorite and common unit in most Need for Speed games.

Of course, not many cars can compete with a well-modified Skyline GTR on the streets or the track, but when drifting around tight bends, the GTR excels at powering through with all-wheel drive and well-rounded handling and traction values. It’s an amazing automobile and one of the very best cars for drifting in Need For Speed Unbound. Granted, a cheaper Nissan Skyline R32 won’t disappoint either and is a great vehicle for any drift enthusiast.

8

Nissan 180SX Type X S13 (1996)

A Strong Performer Out The Gate For A-Tier Events

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 152 mph
• 0-60 Time: 5.7s

Nissan is another line of vehicles that many racers, both pro and recreational, trust to give them an edge on the track with the right parts. The Nissan 180SX is a highly used classic that can perform incredibly well on multiple types of tracks but is common in drift events.

Acquiring the 180SX in Need for Speed Unbound won’t break the bank and will provide a powerful vehicle that players can take through the majority of the game. With a top speed of 146 miles per hour, the 180SX can compete admirably with just a little tuning, thanks to its drift value of 20 percent.

7

Nissan 350Z Z33 (2008)

A Great Vehicle For A Number Of Builds

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 155 mph
• 0-60 Time: 5.4s

The Nissan 350z is a powerful two-door compact vehicle that is sought after for its wide range of customization options and above-average acceleration. Because of the 350z’s size, it is exceptional at cornering, and it is no different in Need for Speed Unbound.

Able to go from zero to sixty in under six seconds and costing just under sixty thousand in-game currency, an adequately tuned 350z will glide across the streets of Need for Speed Unbound and take corners like nothing else on the market thanks to its starting 20 percent drift value. It’s even possible to win in style, cosplaying as Rachel’s Nissan 350Z from Need for Speed: Underground 2 with this model, as there are plenty of suitable fan liveries available in the customization menu for this vehicle.

6

Nissan Silvia Spec-R Aero S15 (2002)

A Sleek Sniper For A-Tier Events

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 155 mph
• 0-60 Time: 5.6s

The Silvia Spec-R Aero is a wide-body two-door with excellent horsepower and handling. Many Nissan vehicles are prominent in street and circuit racing, and the Aero is no different. However, players who prefer drift races will want a car that can maintain its speed while skating around corners and accelerating to get back in the race.

Being able to go from zero to sixty in under six seconds and with a top speed of 155 miles per hour, the Aero is a wonderful choice to take into Need for Speed Unbound. It boasts a 20 percent drift value too, making it one of the best drift cars in the game. As an alternative, the Nissan Silvia K’s performs almost identically to the Silvia, so you can choose whichever version you like most.

5

Subaru BRZ Premium ZC6 (2014)

Feels Great Behind A Controller

• Setup: AWD
• Top Speed: 143 mph
• 0-60 Time: 6.2s

The Subaru BRZ is a vehicle well known in the drifting community as one of the main cars used by Dai Yoshihara, a champion in many Drift competitions. The BRZ has excellent control around corners and acceleration that has a lot of potential when tuned properly.

Players will need to modify the engine and transmission accurately to awaken this beast and rule the drift competitions Need for Speed Unbound has to offer. The BRZ has a base top speed of 144 miles per hour and a 20 percent drift value. Without a doubt, it is one of the most suitable and balanced cars for any high-skill events such as drift, Gymkhana, or even Takeover, where players can score some additional points on every corner thanks to the responsiveness and precision of this car.

4

Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat LD (2019)

Might Pack Too Much Power For Some, But This Beast’s Results Speak Volumes

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 203 mph
• 0-60 Time: 3.6s

On the opposite side of the Japanese tuner spectrum, American modern muscle cars may not be the most obvious choice for drifting but can offer some of the best risk-reward dynamics. Like other racing muscle cars, such as modern Chevrolet Corvette models, the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat delivers an overwhelming amount of power right from the start, which might intimidate drifting newcomers. However, in skilled hands with the right upgrades and handling tweaks, the Charger SRT Hellcat can provide an extreme and unmatched drifting experience. It’s best suited for tracks with fewer sharp turns and longer sweeping curves, most commonly found in the Northwest region of the Lakeshore map.

Thanks to its beastly engine — once the most powerful production Chrysler engine ever fitted into a muscle car until 2018 — this high-performance saloon can rack up serious scores. With its unparalleled acceleration and a natural tendency to drift with the slightest turn of the wheel, the SRT Hellcat is a prime choice for daring pro drifters who can tame its roaring potential.

3

Nissan Silvia K’s Aero S14 (1998)

Players Won’t Need Anything Else To Become True Drift Kings

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 142 mph
• 0-60 Time: 6.5s

Similar to the Silvia Spec-R Aero, the Nissan Silvia K’s Aero boasts outstanding drifting potential and is undoubtedly one of the top-tier choices for players looking to simplify their drifting experience in Need for Speed Unbound. Even during the longest slides, the Silvia K’s Aero remains predictable and highly responsive, enabling drivers to course-correct instantly. This makes it easy to successfully navigate even the trickiest stages the game offers, all while maintaining multipliers without the risk of collisions breaking your streak.

The “Aero” package enhances the car with features such as front fog lights, a rear spoiler, 5-spoke wheels, an electric sunroof, a rear window wiper, and some more. As a classic 4-seater coupe, the Silvia K’s Aero offers excellent drifting potential. While its stock stats may not stand out initially, its reasonable price makes it a worthwhile investment, capable of performing admirably from the early game to even the most demanding endgame tracks.

2

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 C6 (2013)

Strong S Class Contender

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 198 mph
• 0-60 Time: 3.7s

Corvette is another name synonymous with racing, along with having a significant movie career with James Bond behind the wheel. The Z06 model of the Corvette is available for purchase in Need for Speed Unbound and is a great piece of machinery that can hold its own among the other models available in the game.

Sitting at stock S-tier, the Z06 can be a fun pick for drifting events and can look good while hitting corners. With a top speed of 198 mph and a 3-second acceleration stat, it is a beast in its own right.

1

Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A FD3S (2002)

A Classic Vehicle With High Potential

• Setup: RWD
• Top Speed: 159 mph
• 0-60 Time: 4.8s

The Mazda RX-7 is a well-known legend on the drift circuit. It is the former main car of drift star Youichi Imamura and is featured in the widely celebrated racing manga, Initial D. In addition, the RX-7 has an extensive history in street racing and is beloved by most car enthusiasts as one of the best cars to take on a track.

The RX-7 has unique capabilities that require it to be specially tuned to handle quick turns thanks to its rear-wheel drive. In Need for Speed Unbound, the RX-7 has a top speed of 159 miles per hour with excellent traction and a 40 percent drift value in handling. Keep in mind that the RX-7’s younger sister, the RX-8 Spirit R, is also a very impressive choice for drifting.