This is not something you can do at home.
Drifting, when done in a controlled environment and on a racetrack, can be great fun. Although it might not be the fastest way around circuits, drifting can be a fun way to push your vehicle beyond its limit of adhesion. BMW M’s most recent YouTube video contains a short tutorial on drifting RWD or AWD vehicles.
The BMW M8 Competition is a demonstration vehicle that can switch between all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. Stefan Landmann, driving instructor, begins by showing how the car responds to power being sent to the rear wheels. He also switches from all-wheel-drive to rear-wheel drive.
You may be a keen reader, but drifting is essentially three phases. The first phase involves entering the slide and controlling the rear end. The third phase involves exiting the maneuver without putting your pride and joy in the wall. This involves delicate balance between the amount of throttle and steering input that you give. Stefan is an excellent driving instructor so it’s not surprising.
Landmann used comfort mode to steer, just like other automotive journalists who complain about BMW’s feeling a little unsure. Landmann briefly mentioned that the engine was in a sportier setting. However, both the suspension as well as the steering were biased towards comfort.
After completing his RWD, he switches over to all-wheel drive. This is more complicated. AWD is different because the power goes to all four wheels. Instead of steering in the opposite direction to the corner, AWD requires more input to the corner to maintain balance. The car moves around corners at a shallower angle when all four wheels are being used.
We’ll let your imagination decide which technique is more impressive. But one thing is certain: it’s hard to beat a day on a skidpad.