Car drifting is caused when the rear slip angle is greater than the front slip angle to such an extent that often the front wheels are pointing in the opposite direction to the turn (e.g. car is turning left wheels are pointed right or vice versa also known as opposite lock or counter-steering).
Drift cars are usually light-to-moderate weight rear-wheel-drive coupes and sedans offering a large range of power levels.
Drifting competitions are judged based on line angle speed style and show factor. Line involves taking the correct line which is usually announced beforehand by judges. The show factor is based on many things such as the amount of smoke how close the car is to the wall or designated clipping point, and the crowd's reaction.