Is stick shift better for drifting?

Yes, using a stick shift (manual transmission) can be better for drifting in some racing games, especially in simulated racing games or drifting competitions. Here’s why:

Why Stick Shift is Better for Drifting:

1. Precise Control Over RPM:

   • In drifting, maintaining the right RPM (revolutions per minute) is crucial. With a stick shift, you have more manual control over the gear and throttle, allowing you to keep the car in the ideal power band. This is especially important when you're trying to keep the car sideways and control your speed during a drift.
   • You can also downshift or upshift at precise moments to maintain control over the car’s speed and momentum during a drift.

2. Better Power Delivery:

   • A manual transmission gives you more flexibility in power delivery. You can better manage how much power you’re sending to the wheels, which is essential for drifting where you need to balance between oversteering and understeering.
   • It lets you modulate your throttle input in a more controlled way, which helps with triggering and maintaining drifts.

3. Clutch Control:

   • In drifting, the use of the clutch is essential. With a stick shift, you have direct control over the clutch, which can help you initiate drifts and modulate the angle of the car. You can use techniques like rev matching or heel-toe shifting to make smoother transitions between gears while maintaining a drift.

4. Increased Immersion in Racing Simulators:

   • If you're playing a racing simulator, using a manual stick shift provides a more immersive experience. Games like Assetto Corsa, Forza Motorsport, and Gran Turismo reward drivers who use a manual transmission, as it mirrors real-world drifting techniques. Manual gear shifting also requires more skill and precision, making the drift more challenging and rewarding.

However, Automatic Transmission (Auto) in Drifting:

While manual transmission gives you more control and flexibility, some drivers (especially in video games or for casual drifting) prefer automatic transmission because:

• Convenience: It removes the need to constantly focus on gear changes, allowing players to focus more on steering and throttle control.
• Consistency: In some games, automatic transmission can allow for more consistent drifts without worrying about shifting, especially for beginners.

Conclusion:

If you're serious about drifting in either real life or a racing simulator, a stick shift (manual transmission) is generally better for drifting due to the control it provides over throttle, gear shifts, and clutch management. It gives you more precise control over the car’s power and handling during the drift, which is essential for mastering the technique.