So you wanna rc drift?
Well, I've seen it here and on many other threads, so I'm just gonna mass produce this for the newbies. Hopefully it'll help someone out.
Gas or Electric:
It doesn't matter. The key is 4wd. The reason everyone says electric, when this question is asked is because it's a lot easier to get an electric car sideways and it's less hastle to work on. However, if you're fluent in Nitro tuning, then it's really your preference. The advantage to Nitro is, once you actually get good at it, you'll be able to do much faster drifts (in most cases). Also, there's much less turnaround time as opposed to elec. However, with the elec, there isn't much (if any really) tuning involved. However, unless you have a few batteries with you, only expect 30 mins. tops of dorifto fun.
The down side to Nitro is the motor. There's maintenance and also, drifting is a high rev high torque sport. Nieither of which is good for a Nitro motor. However, if you have experience with Nitro motors, then it shouldn't be a problem. So, in conclusion, if you're good at tuning a Nitro and don't mind that, go Nitro. If you don't want to deal with the hasstle, go elec.
PVC, ABS, Electrical Tape, or Drift Tires:
There isn't any difference in my (and other's) experience. Drift tires are the most expensive way to go. However, some pvc or abs compound, wrapped in electrical tape works just as well. The biggest factor would probably be rather or not you're just drifting for fun or rather you're trying to get into competitions. And unless you live in Cali, competitions are few and far between. Now, if PVC or ABS is hard to find, then go drift tire. But both of these should be easily accessable at your neighborhood hardware store. Matter fact, some folks on here are selling some. Or...ebay it up. They've got everything.
What body should I get:
Simply put, it doesn't matter. That's more so for looks and protection. I have a Nissan S15, a Supra, and a Mazda6, currently. And in about a week, I'll have a 350z, a Civic, and a 1st gen Neon. 3 drift in the real world and 3 (normally) don't. But it's about personal preference.
Does it need to be fast:
Just like on 1:1 scale, drifting isn't about power or speed. While both are factors, niether are main points. If someone has a r/c car that goes 80mph (real scale) but can't control it in a turn, what good is it? It's more so tires and suspension. With fresh rubber (or compound) I can pull off some NASTY manuevers at 1/4 throttle. Once the tires start to wear out, it takes more and more speed and throttle to do the same thing. So, work on the contact patch and your toe settings before you make it a strait line monster.
4wd or rwd:
As I said before, 4wd. This isn't 1:1 scale. With a RWD car, you will spin out more than anything. If you DO actually complete a drift (cuz nothing is IMPOSSIBLE) the likely hood of you repeating it on a consistent basis, if at all is low.
Can I use Tyco Drift Kings:
In a word, yes. Would I do it, NO. Not because they can't drift, but because they're not modifiable. There isn't really an aftermarket for them. They are not made to be modified or tinkered with. So, that means that if they break, you have to buy a new one. While that may be initially, the cheapest route, it'll cost you if you stick with this as a hobby. Save up and grab a used TTL-01 chasis and do it up. Or, go big and get a RTR or RTD kit. You can modify them and they'll be more pleasing in the long run.
Do I need to get a RTD kit or "drift" accessories:
Usually, no. The RTD (ready to drift) kits from Yokomo and HPI are expensive (mine costs $350). They're great to start with if you have the cash. However, you can do the same thing with a stock r/c car. The only thing it does is consolidate everything to get you out there on the pavement quicker. The advantage to them, is obviously, you get everything at one time (and usally a pretty cool body). The disadvantage is the price. As for the "drift" accessories, they're usually a gimmick. If they're not a gimmick, then they're just an expensive way of doing something (i.e. drift tires). If you want it and can afford it, do it up. If not, it's not going to harp on your ability to get sideways.
All said, here's my basic advice. Get what you're comfortable with and make it work. A simple chasis and some hard compound is really all you need to get started. Don't be sucked in by gimmicks. And above all, do some research. After all, like a full size car, it's an investment. and you'll have way more fun if you know what you're doing.
Happy drifting.
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