Subaru BRZ ZN6: The Modern Drift Platform Redefined
The Subaru BRZ ZN6 (2013-2020) represents a pivotal moment in affordable drift car history, delivering a perfectly balanced rear-wheel-drive platform that reignited enthusiasm for pure driving dynamics. Developed jointly with Toyota as the 86/GT86 twins, this first-generation BRZ combined Subaru's legendary boxer engine heritage with a lightweight chassis engineered specifically for spirited driving and competitive drifting. With its low center of gravity, ideal 53/47 weight distribution, and accessible price point, the ZN6 quickly became a cornerstone of grassroots drift culture while proving its mettle in professional Formula Drift competition. The BRZ's naturally aspirated FA20 2.0L boxer engine produces 200hp in stock form, but the platform's true genius lies in its ability to handle significantly more power through forced induction upgrades, making it one of the most versatile modern drift builds available.
FA20 Boxer Engine and Power Potential
The heart of the BRZ ZN6 is Subaru's FA20 naturally aspirated boxer engine, a 2.0L flat-four producing 200hp and 151 lb-ft of torque in stock configuration. While some criticize the torque dip around 4000 RPM, this characteristic actually teaches proper drift line management and throttle control. The FA20's square bore and stroke (86mm x 86mm) make it exceptionally receptive to forced induction, with bolt-on turbo kits from GReddy, HKS, and Jackson Racing reliably pushing 300-400hp on stock internals. Serious drift competitors often build the FA20 with forged internals, upgraded fuel systems, and larger turbochargers to achieve 500-600hp—more than enough to compete at national-level events. The boxer configuration's inherently low center of gravity contributes directly to the car's exceptional balance during transitions, making power delivery predictable and controllable even at extreme angles.
Lightweight Chassis and Perfect Balance
Weighing just 2,758 lbs (1,250 kg) in its lightest trim, the BRZ ZN6's chassis represents a masterclass in weight distribution and structural rigidity. The combination of Subaru's ring-shaped reinforcement frame, Toyota's engineering input, and strategic use of aluminum components created a platform that feels planted yet playful. The front-engine, rear-drive layout places the compact FA20 entirely behind the front axle, contributing to that coveted 53/47 weight distribution that allows for effortless weight transfer during initiation. Popular drift modifications include adjustable coilover suspension from brands like BC Racing, Fortune Auto, and Ohlins, along with angle kits from Wisefab or SLR that increase steering angle to 65+ degrees. The car's relatively narrow track width and short wheelbase (101.2 inches) make it incredibly nimble in tight proximity battles, while the rigid chassis responds immediately to suspension tuning without the unpredictable flex common in older platforms.
Formula Drift Success and Aftermarket Support
The BRZ ZN6 platform has proven itself at the highest levels of professional drifting, with drivers like Ryan Tuerck, Fredric Aasbo (in the Toyota 86 variant), and numerous privateer competitors campaigning heavily modified versions in Formula Drift and international series. These professional builds typically feature fully built FA20 engines producing 700-1000hp, custom tube-frame chassis reinforcements, and aggressive aero packages, yet they retain the core DNA that makes the stock BRZ such a capable drift car. The aftermarket support for the ZN6 is extraordinary, with virtually every major performance brand offering bolt-on solutions: Tomei, Greddy, HKS, Perrin, and Whiteline provide everything from headers and exhaust systems to comprehensive suspension packages. The shared platform with the Toyota 86 doubles the available parts catalog, ensuring that building a competitive BRZ drift car is more accessible than ever. Whether you're starting with a simple angle kit and coilovers or building a full competition machine with a built motor and sequential transmission, the BRZ ZN6 remains one of the most rewarding modern drift platforms.