Which is better for drifting manual or automatic?

When it comes to drifting, manual transmission is generally considered the better option compared to automatic transmission. Here’s why:

1. Control and Precision:

• Manual Transmission offers better control over the car, especially when drifting. You can control the gear shifts, which is critical for maintaining the car’s momentum and adjusting speed during the drift. Manual allows you to rev match and downshift at the right moments, giving you more control over the car's behavior, especially in tight corners or during a high-speed drift.
• Automatic Transmission tends to shift gears on its own, which can be less predictable and limit your ability to control the car’s speed and throttle during a drift. Some modern automatics allow you to shift manually using paddle shifters, but they still can't offer the same level of precision as a manual.

2. Throttle Control:

• With manual transmission, you can keep the car in a lower gear for higher revs, which helps in maintaining momentum during the drift. This allows for a smoother and more consistent drift.
• Automatic transmission cars, especially older models or those without manual shift options, may not give you the same throttle response or ability to stay at high revs in lower gears, which can disrupt the flow of a drift.

3. Engagement and Feel:

• Manual gearboxes require more engagement from the driver, making the driving experience feel more dynamic. Drifting in manual feels more like a natural extension of your movements, as you are constantly in tune with the car, adjusting gear and throttle.
• Automatic transmissions can make drifting feel less involved, as the car handles some of the heavy lifting. This can be a downside for those who enjoy the art of control and finesse in drifting.

4. Customization and Tuning:

• Manual transmissions allow for more tuning and modifications to suit your drifting style. You can fine-tune your shifting patterns, clutch control, and throttle response to fit your needs, making it more suitable for professional drifters.
• Automatic transmissions are often less customizable in terms of shifting patterns, even if you have performance-oriented options like paddle shifters.

In Summary:

For drifting, manual transmission is preferred due to its greater control, precision, and engagement. It allows the driver to modulate speed, throttle, and gear shifts to maintain a smooth and controlled drift. Automatic transmission, while easier to drive for some, tends to limit the level of control needed for high-level drifting. However, with newer automatic transmissions featuring manual modes and dual-clutch systems, there is still some potential for good drifting performance, though it's generally not as fluid or responsive as a manual transmission.

So, if you’re serious about drifting or want the best experience, manual is the way to go.