Best Drift Cars In Need For Speed Heat

Need For Speed is perhaps the most popular racing game franchise. For over twenty years, Electronic Arts has taken players on rides across countries, through crowded city streets, and even local circuit racetracks. Each game in the series features a wealth of amazing vehicles that players will love purchasing and upgrading to their heart’s content until the bulk of the game’s events can be completed with relative ease.

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One of the most celebrated installments in the franchise is Need For Speed Heat. Players can get behind the will of their favorite vehicles and take on the game’s content in several ways while also being able to fully customize their ride inside and out. Picking the right car for the situation is vital for success, and not all tuners are created equal. Specifically, in drift events, choosing the best drift car in NFS Heat can make or break a race depending on how the vehicle takes turns and grips the road.

Updated January 30, 2025 by Vlad Mazanko: NFS Heat offers a diverse range of events, and players must carefully select and modify cars to match specific challenges, including drifting. A car built for high-speed races won’t necessarily excel in drift events, making it crucial to choose the right vehicle for the job.

Traditionally, rear-wheel-drive cars, such as Japanese tuner classics or American muscle cars, are the go-to choices for drifting, though there are some noteworthy exceptions. Investing in a car’s acceleration is also more critical than focusing on its top speed, as quick bursts between turns are key to maximizing drift scores. This updated list highlights the best drift cars in NFS Heat, complete with stats to help players ace these events in style.

1

Mazda RX-7 Spirit R 2002

One Of The Best Drift Rides That Unlocks Early

• Base Performance Rating: 144
• Base Horsepower: 276 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 4.80 sec
• Top Speed: 159 mph
• Cost: $59,500
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 4

The Mazda RX-7 is a tuner fan’s dream. It’s a Japanese two-door sedan with a twin-turbo engine that hits speeds upwards of about one hundred and fifty miles per hour without modification. The RX-7 is a classic among racing fans in both professional and street-level communities because of its handling and drifting capabilities.

However, the Mazda RX-7 gained much of its popularity from the Initial D racing manga and anime series which made it a fixture in the drifting community. Players who equip a Pro Drift Differential and some Elite Drift tires on this machine will slide around corners with no effort at all.

2

Nissan Skyline GT-R V·Spec 1999

An Iconic Racing King In Every Discipline, Including Drifting

• Base Performance Rating: 139
• Base Horsepower: 327 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 5.20 sec
• Top Speed: 157 mph
• Cost: $73,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 14

The Nissan Skyline has always been a powerful machine and a fan favorite among racing enthusiasts. Perhaps the majority of its popularity sprung from the Fast and Furious movie franchise. The Skyline is an above-average vehicle on drifting tracks with a back end that slides outward easily but maintains a steady acceleration allowing it to maintain speed.

Players may want to apply the Sport Drift Differential to maximize sideways distance and to allow maximum performance and feel when taking on corners. The Nissan Skyline is a beast on any street and maintains dominance as one of the best drift cars in Need for Speed Heat.

3

Mazda MX-5 2015

Smaller Size And Mobility Can Come In Handy When Scoring Chains Of Slides

• Base Performance Rating: 111
• Base Horsepower: 158 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 6.90 sec
• Top Speed: 133 mph
• Cost: $31,500
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 20

The Mazda MX-5 is somewhat overlooked in Need for Speed Heat, despite being a top contender in drift events. In addition to its real-world performance, the Mazda MX-5 is a great pick when utilizing the right build, achieving a minimum of sixty thousand point runs depending on the track.

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Players won’t have any problem clearing events but should keep in mind that because of the vehicle’s size, the back end may not slide out as much as desired. However, this doesn’t impact the vehicle’s ability too much. While the Mazda MX-5 is an overall versatile car that competes adequately in multiple types of races, it overtakes the competition in Drifting.

4

Nissan Silvia Spec-R Aero 2002

A Drifting Cult Classic That Will Always Get The Job Done

• Base Performance Rating: 139
• Base Horsepower: 247 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 5.40 sec
• Top Speed: 165 mph
• Cost: $45,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 3

The Nissan Silvia is perhaps one of the most prominent vehicles in the drifting community and one of the most popular drift cars in the Need for Speed Heat. The car is gifted with a rear-wheel drive paired with a stock turbocharged inline engine that pushes towards one hundred and sixty at top speed.

In Need For Speed Heat, the Silvia has superb handling and excels at many different tracks. However, Drifting is where the Silvia shines as it hovers across wet streets and kisses the guard rails of downhill twists and turns.

5

Subaru BRZ Premium 2014

As Great For Rally Events As It Is For Serious Drifting On The Streets

• Base Performance Rating: 116
• Base Horsepower: 197 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 6.40 sec
• Top Speed: 143 mph
• Cost: $36,500
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 14

The Subaru BRZ is a mainstay in the Need For Speed world, as well as the street racing community. It’s celebrated for its handling and high-speed capabilities. The BRZ was a joint venture by the Japanese companies Toyota and Subaru and was released with a wide variety of interest thanks to its sleek look and various optional builds.

The Subaru BRZ is loosely based on the 2000GT, and because of that, the vehicle quickly hit the streets as a racing contender. With the right build, the Subaru BRZ can put its peers to shame with the way it bends around corners, reaching a complete sideways drift and clean glides across all types of terrain.

6

Nissan 180SX Type-X 1996

Nearly As Iconic And Influential As The Silvia Aero

• Base Performance Rating: 125
• Base Horsepower: 203 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 5.70 sec
• Top Speed: 152 mph
• Cost: $43,500
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 14

Almost as iconic and influential in the drifting scene as the legendary Nissan Silvia Spec-R Aero, the 180SX Type-X is another Nissan standout, known for its exceptional sliding performance. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the Type-X underwent multiple updates in 1994 and 1996, receiving exterior enhancements such as a wider body and revised spoiler variations.

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In terms of drifting capabilities, the stock version may fall short of the acceleration needed for extended, high-scoring slides. However, with some upgrades, the 180SX Type-X transforms into a true powerhouse, making it an invaluable addition to any driver’s garage — especially given its very budget-friendly price tag.

7

BMW M4 2018

Striking A Balance Between Tuners And Muscle Cars

• Base Performance Rating: 206
• Base Horsepower: 425 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 4.10 sec
• Top Speed: 181 mph
• Cost: $87,500
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 18

Many BMWs are excellent choices for drift events in Need for Speed Heat due to their RWD layout, and the BMW M4 is no exception. With solid stats across the board and a balance of reliable yet controllable skidding during cornering, the M4 is a versatile drift setup in the game. It occupies a middle ground between Japanese tuner classics, which often lack engine power, and muscle cars, which tend to overdeliver in raw power.

The BMW M4 boasts new inter-stitching and an improved suspension system, designed to provide smoother handling without compromising comfort. Getting accustomed to the M4 takes very little time, making it an excellent choice for players looking to achieve strong scores right out of the gate.

8

Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition 2019

A More Exclusive Yet Equally Promising Older Brother To The 350Z

• Base Performance Rating: 159
• Base Horsepower: 331 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 4.80 sec
• Top Speed: 175 mph
• Cost: $53,500
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 7

The 370Z Heritage Edition is the more exclusive and powerful sibling of the iconic 350Z, offering a limited-production package while maintaining the same sleek, compact frame and low chassis. Despite the Heritage Edition lacking performance or handling upgrades over the base 370Z, which itself shares many traits with the 350Z, players can expect the same excellent cornering control from this RWD setup, along with extensive customization options.

One key advantage over the 350Z is the improved acceleration, a vital asset for drifting on courses with plenty of curves and turns. Additionally, newer models feature slightly reduced weight due to updated materials, further enhancing the car’s racing potential.

9

Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 2014

A More Expensive Muscle Choice For Pro Drifters

• Base Performance Rating: 206
• Base Horsepower: 504 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.90 sec
• Top Speed: 177 mph
• Cost: $93,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 18

When the new model for the Camaro was released, racing fans had their minds blown. A well-known classic among all forms of racetracks, the Camaro has always had a prominent reputation on the street. The new model met all expectations and quickly became a favorite for muscle car fans and Tuner fans alike.

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The Chevrolet Camaro is a beast on the road, able to reach speeds upwards of one hundred and sixty miles per hour with stock parts alone. If modified correctly, the Camaro can boast a girthy eleven hundred horsepower. When geared for Drift events in the game, the Camaro excels at fishtailing around corners. In the right hands, a Camaro can be one of the best drift cars in Need For Speed Heat, hands down.

10

Volvo 242DL 1975

Stylish And Affordable, Yet Demands Some Investment And Dedication

• Base Performance Rating: 100
• Base Horsepower: 97 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 10.33 sec
• Top Speed: 96 mph
• Cost: $24,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 22

Players who want to use a classic vehicle to own their opponents in style will love using the 1975 Volvo 242DL. It’s one of the best drift cars in NFS Heat and can slide around corners like a beast with the right build. Most drift events will become incredibly easy once players get an optimal version of this car.

As one would expect from any drift car, players shouldn’t get too greedy if they’ve stacked up a ton of Rep in Need for Speed Heat at night. Outrunning the police in this car will be an exercise in futility in Heat Level 3 and beyond. Gamers are better off playing the long game and not taking too many risks with this vehicle after winning a few drift events at night.

11

Nissan Fairlady 240ZG 1971

Old-School Ride That Can Keep Great Momentum For Chain Combos

• Base Performance Rating: 104
• Base Horsepower: 147 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 7.50 sec
• Top Speed: 131 mph
• Cost: $28,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 12

The vintage Nissan Fairlady 240ZG may not have the look or reputation of more iconic Nissan drift cars, but this classic holds great potential. Its smooth handling and strong tuner flexibility make it a solid option for players who are willing to invest in it.

With the right upgrades, the Fairlady offers impressive power and momentum, along with easy throttle control and solid angle potential. While it may not match legends like the Skyline, RX-7, or 350Z in efficiency, it’s a highly affordable entry point that can deliver impressive results.

12

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 2013

Lightning-Fast Acceleration And Powerful Brakes Make For A Great Mid-Game Drifting Choice

• Base Performance Rating: 252
• Base Horsepower: 506 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.70 sec
• Top Speed: 198 mph
• Cost: $106,500
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 22

Functional cars that get the job done are all well and good, but players who love Need for Speed want to show off the flashiest and most expensive-looking cars as they own events they participate in. As a result, it’s easy to see why some players would love to use the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 when pulling up to a drift challenge.

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Not only is it one of the best drift cars in NFS Heat, but players can win events in style with this amazing vehicle. Players will have to grind out a lot of Rep at night to reach Level 22, but the result is bound to be worthwhile for obvious reasons.

13

Buick Regal Grand National GNX 1987

A Vintage And Rewarding Ride With A Character

• Base Performance Rating: 114
• Base Horsepower: 245 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 6.20 sec
• Top Speed: 137 mph
• Cost: $39,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 12

A great example of how appearances can be deceiving, most people won’t find the 1987 Buick Grand National to be all that impressive at first glance. However, after players make a substantial investment in this vehicle, they’ll unlock a level of performance that will make most drift events a joke.

The vintage look of this vehicle lets players look classic as they drive around in one of NFS Heat‘s best drift cars. There aren’t many vehicles better than this one. Players can go through the entire game while relying on a Buick Grand National for the drift events.

14

Nissan 350Z 2008

A Renowned Foundation For Building A True Drift Legend

• Base Performance Rating: 150
• Base Horsepower: 306 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 5.40 sec
• Top Speed: 173 mph
• Cost: $55,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 12

Nissan is a staple name when it comes to the most popular and widely used vehicles both on and off the track. They’re especially well known on the Drift Tracks from Los Angeles to Tokyo. The 350Z has one of the sleekest frames on the market and has a very low chassis for a compact vehicle.

The 350Z is able to reach base speeds of over one hundred and fifty miles per hour and has excellent control when taking corners and weaving through traffic in Need for Speed Heat. When fitted out with the S-Class parts focused on Drift, the 350Z can slide across lanes with ease. The 350Z also has some of the most unique customization options in the game, making it a win-win for both performance and visual appeal.

15

Dodge SRT Viper GTS 2014

One Of The Best And Most Powerful Choices, Yet Unlocks Fairly Late

• Base Performance Rating: 283
• Base Horsepower: 640 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.30 sec
• Top Speed: 206 mph
• Cost: $121,500
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 28

The Dodge SRT Viper GTS is an extremely powerful drift car in Need for Speed Heat, but its high power can make it challenging to control for inexperienced drifters. However, those who can tame its raw strength will find it to be one of the best options for drifting in the game. The main drawback is that the Viper only unlocks later in the story, by which time many players may have already chosen and become accustomed to vehicles for each discipline.

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Thanks to its exceptional acceleration and classic muscle-car handling, with long, rear slides that are easy to chain together, the Dodge SRT Viper can dominate the most challenging drift tracks.

16

Ford Mustang GT 2015

One Of The Better Muscle Choices For Drifting

• Base Performance Rating: 191
• Base Horsepower: 419 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 4.20 sec
• Top Speed: 175 mph
• Cost: $66,500
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 16

Another muscle car classic, the Mustang has been leaving the competition in the dust since its original debut in 1964 by Ford Motor Company. In Need For Speed Heat, the Mustang GT is a combination of torque and burnt rubber that takes the lead down any straightaway.

However, the Mustang can also be a devilish contender in Drift events. It doesn’t take the highest grade of parts to unlock the potential of the Mustang, but if outfitted with a strong build geared toward tire slide and acceleration, the Mustang is sure to turn some heads while it turns some corners.

17

McLaren 600LT 2018

An Exotic Speed Demon Capable Of Setting High Scores Even In Stock Variant

• Base Performance Rating: 304
• Base Horsepower: 591 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.80 sec
• Top Speed: 207 mph
• Cost: $212,500
• How To Unlock: Earn a 3-Star rating in all Speed Traps

The McLaren 600LT is one of the few exotic supercars on the list and stands equal amongst other drift cars in Need For Speed Heat. The 600LT is a speed demon straight out of the garage that doesn’t take much to get going and is even capable of winning races straight from stock modifications.

Being another iteration of the Sport series of McLarens, the 600LT is also a member of the “Longtail” models, which also features a top-mounted exhaust system. The 600LT was developed for optimal performance and did not disappoint as it excels in various sections but stands out in both drag and drift races.

18

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X 2008

Superior Handling And Decent Acceleration Make For A Great Combo

• Base Performance Rating: 132
• Base Horsepower: 291 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 5.10 sec
• Top Speed: 149 mph
• Cost: $48,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 14

The Mitsubishi Lancer class of vehicles stands out and is a prominent fixture in the drifting and rally racing community. The Lancer Evolution stands among the top with excellent track and off-road capabilities. However, the Lancer Evolution also stands out in the drift category with superior handling and above-average acceleration.

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On top of its mechanical capabilities, the Lancer Evolution is also a visually appealing vehicle with a sleek and compact design that attracts many fans and professionals. In Need for Speed Heat, the proper modifications and visual customizations will create a speed demon that will clear the pack and leave competitors in the dust.

19

Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport 2017

A High-Performance Vehicle Designed For Extended Slides

• Base Performance Rating: 233
• Base Horsepower: 460 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.80 sec
• Top Speed: 190 mph
• Cost: $91,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 20

The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Coupe is a classic muscle RWD sports car, excelling in prolonged drifting while offering impressive handling and racing performance. Equipped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, a Brembo brake system, and an electronic limited-slip differential, the Grand Sport delivers excellent stopping power and precise response, making it a highly rewarding choice for mastering drift events.

Thanks to its impressive stock stats, players may not need to invest heavily in engine upgrades when opting for drifting, requiring only minor adjustments to the car’s weight, tires, and brakes. With its rapid acceleration and reliable traction, the Corvette Grand Sport is more than capable of handling the rest.

20

Nissan Skyline GT-R V·Spec 1993

Capable Of Achieving Impressive Scores Through Handbrake Maneuvering

• Base Performance Rating: 131
• Base Horsepower: 276 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 5.50 sec
• Top Speed: 152 mph
• Cost: $72,000
• How To Unlock: Reach Rep Level 14

As with many previous Need for Speed titles, Nissan dominates the drifting scene in Heat, with nearly every model being well-suited for such events. The Skyline GT-R V-Spec ’93 may lack the flair of newer models like the 370Z or Silvia, but it compensates with motorsport-grade components such as Brembo brakes and a 2.6-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine.

Unlike other Nissans, the Skyline GT-R features an all-wheel drive (AWD) layout and a multi-link suspension on both axles. For drifting, this translates to mastering powersliding tactics. However, initiating slides can be slightly more challenging compared to traditional rear-wheel-drive cars, as they heavily rely on the use of the handbrake. The Skyline GT-R V-Spec proves to be a versatile racing vehicle, easily adaptable to both standard racing and drifting setups with minimal tuning in the garage.

Systems

Released

November 8, 2019

Developer(s)

Ghost Games