Open Diff Drifting: A Comprehensive Guide

Drifting has long been celebrated as one of the most thrilling forms of motorsport. The allure of sliding around corners and feeling completely in control of your vehicle’s weight transfer is simply irresistible to many enthusiasts. While most people associate drifting with high-powered cars and limited-slip differentials (LSDs), it is still possible to experience drifting techniques—even with an open differential. This article explores the core concepts behind open diff drifting, including why an LSD is usually preferred, how to maximise your drifting potential in an open diff car, and what to watch out for to prevent damage to your vehicle.

Understanding the Open Differential

An open differential (often just called an open diff) is the most common type of differential found in everyday road cars. It works by splitting torque evenly between the two rear wheels (in rear-wheel-drive cars). However, if one wheel loses traction, nearly all the torque is diverted to that wheel, causing it to spin freely while the other wheel retains full traction. This characteristic can make open diff drifting frustrating, as only one wheel will break free instead of both simultaneously.

The Downside of an Open Diff

• One-Tyre Fire: If you simply press the accelerator in a corner, you risk ending up with the infamous “one-tyre fire.” One wheel spins uselessly while the car fails to swing its rear end out into a sustained drift.
• Unreliable Slips: Even if you do get both tyres to slip, the moment you reduce throttle or apply too much, the open diff can revert to sending power to a single wheel, ruining the drift.
• Frustration for Beginners: Many new drifters feel inadequate or frustrated when attempting to learn with an open diff, since the drifting process is so dependent on technique and conditions.

Why Limited-Slip Differentials Shine

A limited-slip differential (LSD) behaves similarly to an open diff until one wheel begins to lose traction. At that point, the LSD transfers power to the wheel that still has traction. This allows both wheels to break free more predictably, improving control and consistency. Drifters value LSDs for:

1. Balanced Wheel Spin
   Both wheels spin together more often, making it easier to initiate and maintain a slide.
2. Greater Control
   Because the rear tyres react similarly, controlling the angle of a drift becomes more intuitive.
3. Reduced Abruptness
   While still requiring skill, an LSD usually provides smoother transitions in and out of drifts.

Techniques for Open Diff Drifting

Despite the difficulties, open diff drifting can still be achieved, particularly if you employ the right techniques and take precautions to protect your vehicle. Below are some strategies to help you initiate and maintain a slide:

1. Use a Flick (Scandinavian Flick)
   Enter a corner at an appropriate speed and quickly shift the car’s weight by steering sharply in one direction, then back in the other. This sudden transfer of weight can unsettle the rear end enough for both tyres to break traction simultaneously.
2. Control the Throttle
   Throttle modulation is crucial. Applying too much throttle could lead to only one wheel spinning (thanks to the open diff), whereas too little throttle might not sustain the drift. Finding the “sweet spot” ensures both tyres remain in a controlled slide.
3. Clutch Kicking (With Caution)
   Some drivers clutch kick to jolt the drivetrain, forcing both rear wheels to slip at once. However, this technique is notoriously rough on the entire driveline—especially in older cars. Components such as the clutch, gearbox, driveshaft, differentials, axle shafts, and subframe bushings all take a beating from repeated clutch kicks. If your car is not reinforced or fitted with upgraded bushings, you run the risk of serious mechanical damage.
4. Stiffen the Rear End
   Installing stiffer rear springs or thicker anti-roll bars can help distribute weight more evenly across the rear tyres. During cornering, a softer suspension might load up one tyre heavily, making it difficult for that tyre to lose traction. A firmer setup helps both wheels spin more easily, supporting open diff drifting.

Potential Damage and What to Watch Out For

When you push your car to its limits—particularly with intense throttle inputs or clutch kicks—there are certain failure points to keep in mind, especially if you own an older rear-wheel-drive model like a BMW E46:

• Subframe Bushings: Over time, rubber bushings degrade, losing their ability to dampen vibrations. Aggressive drifting can accelerate wear, potentially leading to subframe tears or cracks in the chassis where the mounting points attach.
• Drive Shaft and Weibo Joint: Clutch kicks and sudden torque spikes can strain these components. If they are old or in poor condition, they may fail under harsh loads.
• Clutch and Transmission: These parts are directly subjected to sudden shock when clutch kicking, so a weak or worn clutch can slip, and a fatigued transmission can break gears if overstressed.

To drift safely, inspect and maintain all these components, especially before attempting advanced techniques. If you upgrade to polyurethane bushings or weld reinforcement plates to the subframe, you’ll gain the confidence to test more extreme manoeuvres without risking catastrophic failure.

Is Open Diff Drifting Worth It?

While open diff drifting offers an affordable introduction to the drifting world, it comes with plenty of drawbacks. Beginners can use this setup to practise weight transfer, throttle control, and basic slide initiation. However, anyone serious about consistently linking corners and perfecting transitions will benefit immensely from:

1. Upgrading to an LSD
   This investment allows smoother, more predictable drifts, and drastically reduces frustration.
2. Welding the Diff
   A welded diff ensures both tyres always rotate together, which can be useful for a dedicated budget drift car. It is, however, rougher on tyres and can negatively affect handling in normal driving situations.

Conclusion

Drifting with an open differential is entirely possible, but it demands finesse, constant vigilance, and an understanding of your vehicle’s limits. Compared to a limited-slip or welded diff, open diff drifting introduces a much steeper learning curve and can leave you feeling more frustrated than accomplished. If your goal is to master drifting and truly progress your skills, do not underestimate the benefits of a proper LSD or a welded differential. Meanwhile, practising the fundamentals of flicking, throttle control, and weight transfer will still improve your competence on any rear-wheel-drive platform.

No matter your choice, always prioritise safety, vehicle maintenance, and respect for your local regulations. If you embrace patience, technique, and mechanical upkeep, you can carve out a satisfying drifting experience—even with an open diff in a standard street car.

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Zachary Skinner

Zachary Skinner is the editor of TechDrivePlay.com, where tech, cars and adventure share the fast lane.
A former snowboarding pro and programmer, he brings both creative flair and technical know-how to his reviews. From high-performance cars to clever gadgets, he explores how innovation shapes the way we move, connect and live.