Drift anime are an excellent choice for fans of speed, thrilling races, and precise drifting scenes. Although this genre is not as extensive as other types of racing anime, some productions have made a mark by portraying in detail the culture of street racing and the mastery of drift technique. Additionally, when anime do not cover enough, some films also capture that essence.
If you love adrenaline, iconic cars, and engaging stories about talented drivers, this article will showcase the best drift anime and movies. From influential classics to more recent productions, here's everything you need to check out to feel the thrill of the tracks.
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Origin of Drift as a Driving Technique
Drifting as a motorsport practice originated in Japan in the 1970s, with drivers challenging the winding mountain roads (known as touge). One of the pioneers of this style was Kunimitsu Takahashi, a former MotoGP rider who applied controlled sliding techniques in car racing. He realized that by drifting the car in turns, he could maintain higher speeds and gain an advantage over his rivals.
However, the person who truly popularized drifting was Keiichi Tsuchiya, nicknamed "Drift King" (King of Drift). Inspired by Takahashi's techniques, Tsuchiya took drifting to a new level, showcasing his skill in videos and competitions. He helped transform drifting into a recognized sport, which later led to the creation of the D1 Grand Prix, the premier professional drifting championship in Japan.
Over time, drifting became more than just a driving technique – it turned into a cultural phenomenon. Its popularity grew with Initial D, which introduced the art of drifting to a global audience. Additionally, movies like The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift helped to establish drifting as a symbol of street racing.
Initial D – The biggest classic of drifting in anime
There is no way to talk about drift anime without mentioning Initial D. Created by Shuichi Shigeno, this anime was responsible for popularizing drift culture not only in Japan but around the world. The story follows Takumi Fujiwara, a young tofu delivery driver who, without realizing it, develops incredible skills while driving a Toyota AE86 through the mountainous roads of Akina.
Throughout the seasons, Takumi faces various drivers in intense drift battles while honing his technique and discovering his true passion for racing. In addition to the engaging plot, Initial D stands out for:
- Iconic soundtrack featuring Eurobeat songs that became a milestone in the genre.
- Realistic representation of drift, with real techniques and precise details about the cars.
- Evolution of the protagonist, moving from a disinterested beginner to a formidable pilot.
If you're looking for an anime that defines drift in the world of anime, Initial D is the perfect choice.
MF Ghost – The spiritual successor to Initial D
After the success of Initial D, Shuichi Shigeno launched MF Ghost, an anime and manga set in a future where electric engines dominate the market, but combustion engine races are still popular. The story follows Kanata Livington, a young driver who returns to Japan to compete in the MFG, a highly competitive street racing championship.
Even though it is not exclusively focused on drifting, MF Ghost inherits many elements from Initial D, including:
- Battles on mountain roads, where drifting is still an essential technique.
- Presence of iconic cars, such as the Toyota GT86, maintaining the tradition of the previous series.
- Appearance of old characters, creating a nostalgic connection for fans.
If you liked Initial D, MF Ghost is a must-recommendation.
Wangan Midnight – Drift and high speed on the highways
Although Wangan Midnight is not exclusively about drifting, it deserves a place on the list. The anime focuses on high-speed racing on the expressways of Tokyo, where drivers challenge each other in electrifying battles. The protagonist, Akio Asakura, finds a cursed Nissan Fairlady Z (S30), known as "Devil Z," and enters the world of illegal racing.
Drifting appears at certain moments in the anime, especially in tight curves, but the main focus is on extreme speed. Even so, if you love cars and adrenaline, Wangan Midnight is an excellent recommendation.
Ex-Driver – Technology versus human skill
Unlike other racing anime, Éx-Driver takes place in a future where autonomous cars dominate the roads. However, when these machines malfunction and go out of control, only highly skilled human drivers can stop them.
The series follows a group of young drivers who use classic fuel-powered vehicles to face out-of-control cars in thrilling chases. Although the focus is not exclusively on drifting, many scenes include tight turns and precise slides, demonstrating that even in a technological future, human skill still makes a difference.
If you enjoy action combined with technology and a touch of automotive nostalgia, Éx-Driver is a great choice.
Over Rev! – The realistic side of street racing
Over Rev! it is an anime and manga that is not well-known, but it has a realistic approach to street racing and drifting. The story follows Ryoko Shino, a former athlete who discovers the world of motorsports by meeting a group of girls passionate about cars.
Unlike Initial D, which has a narrative more focused on exciting duels, Over Rev! centers on the protagonist's development and her journey to learn how to drive with precision. Some highlights of the anime include:
- Well-detailed drift scenes, respecting the physics of cars.
- Focus on female automotive culture, something rare in the genre.
- Gradual evolution of the protagonist, making everything more engaging.
If you're looking for an anime with a more technical touch and deeper character development, Over Rev! is an excellent choice.
Future GPX Cyber Formula – Drift at high speed
Although Future GPX Cyber Formula is an anime focused on futuristic racing, it deserves attention for the way it utilizes drifting at high speeds. The story follows Kazami Hayato, a young driver who competes in a tournament of advanced cars equipped with artificial intelligence.
Even in a more technological setting, drift techniques are explored, especially in dangerous curves and moments when drivers need to improvise to overtake their rivals. If you enjoy a futuristic touch mixed with intense motorsport, this anime is a great choice.
Wrapping Up
Drift anime may not be numerous, but the few that exist have profoundly impacted fans of racing and adrenaline. Initial D remains the ultimate reference, while MF Ghost and Wangan Midnight complement the experience with their own approaches. And when anime isn't enough, movies provide even more excitement for those who want to see cars skillfully sliding through the curves.
If you love speed and the art of drifting, these recommendations are a must for your list!