The Art of Drifting: How to Do a Burnout in an Automatic RWD

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The first time you hear the screech of tires on asphalt, the smell of rubber smoke, and the car’s rear end fishtailing into a controlled spin, you understand why burnout is more than just a technique—it’s a ritual. It’s the moment where physics and adrenaline collide, where an automatic RWD car transforms from a machine into an extension of the driver’s will. But unlike manual transmissions, where clutch control and gear shifts dictate the dance, an automatic RWD demands a different kind of precision. The question isn’t just how to do a burnout in an automatic RWD—it’s about mastering the nuances of torque converters, wheel lock detection, and the delicate balance between throttle and brake application.

Burnouts in automatic RWD cars are often dismissed as impossible or inferior to their manual counterparts, but that’s a myth rooted in misinformation. Modern automatics, especially those with torque converter lockup, can initiate a burnout with the right setup and technique. The key lies in understanding how the transmission interacts with the drivetrain, how wheel slip is managed, and how to exploit the car’s natural tendencies without relying on manual gear shifts. This isn’t just about spinning the tires—it’s about controlling the transition from static friction to kinetic energy, where the rear wheels go from gripping the pavement to carving smoke rings.

The challenge is real. Automatic RWD burnouts require a deeper grasp of throttle modulation, brake bias, and even the subtle art of "rev-matching" through the torque converter. Unlike manual cars, where the driver can blip the throttle between gear changes, automatics demand a more refined touch—less is often more. The result? A burnout that’s smoother, more controlled, and just as dramatic as one from a manual transmission. But to pull it off, you need to know the history, the mechanics, and the modern adaptations that make it possible.

how to do a burnout in an automatic rwd

The Complete Overview of How to Do a Burnout in an Automatic RWD

Burnouts in automatic RWD cars are a study in contradictions. On one hand, they defy the conventional wisdom that manual transmissions are the only way to spin wheels intentionally. On the other, they expose the limitations of torque converters and the need for precise calibration to achieve the same effect. The process begins long before the tires touch the pavement—it starts with the car’s setup. Suspension geometry, tire compound, and even the transmission’s shift characteristics play a critical role. A car that’s too stiff will struggle to break traction, while one that’s too soft may lose control before the burnout even begins. The goal is a balance: enough grip to initiate the slide, but not so much that the rear wheels lock up prematurely.

The actual execution is where the magic happens. Unlike manual burnouts, where the driver can feather the clutch to control wheel slip, automatics rely on throttle input and brake application to modulate traction. The torque converter acts as a buffer, allowing the engine to rev without immediately transferring power to the wheels. This means the driver must work with the transmission’s natural delays, using throttle blips and brake pulses to coax the rear wheels into rotation. The result is a burnout that’s less about brute force and more about finesse—a dance between the driver’s inputs and the car’s response.

Historical Background and Evolution

The idea of burning out tires isn’t new. Drag racers in the 1950s and 60s used burnouts to launch their cars, but these were crude, uncontrolled slides that often ended in spins. It wasn’t until the 1980s, with the rise of drifting in Japan, that burnouts became an art form. Manual transmissions were the standard, as they allowed drivers to blip the throttle between gear changes, maintaining wheel spin without stalling. Automatic transmissions, meanwhile, were seen as unreliable for drifting due to their tendency to stall under heavy throttle and their lack of precise control.

However, the late 1990s and early 2000s brought a turning point. Torque converter lockup technology improved, allowing automatics to transfer power more efficiently without stalling. Cars like the Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32/R33) and Toyota Supra (A80) proved that automatics could handle burnouts—if the driver knew how to work with the transmission’s quirks. The key was learning to modulate throttle and brake inputs to maintain wheel slip without losing traction entirely. This era also saw the rise of limited-slip differentials (LSDs) in automatics, which helped distribute power more evenly and made burnouts more predictable.

Today, the conversation around how to do a burnout in an automatic RWD is more nuanced than ever. Modern automatics, equipped with advanced traction control and adaptive shift logic, can be tuned to perform burnouts with near-manual precision. The difference now is that the driver must understand the transmission’s behavior—when it will lock up, how it responds to throttle blips, and how to use brake bias to control the slide.

Core Mechanisms: How It Works

At its core, a burnout in an automatic RWD car is about managing two opposing forces: the engine’s torque and the tires’ grip. In a manual transmission, the clutch allows the driver to disengage power from the wheels, giving them control over when and how much torque is applied. An automatic, however, locks the torque converter at certain RPMs, transferring power directly to the wheels. This means the driver must rely on throttle modulation and brake application to control wheel slip.

The process begins with the car at a standstill. The driver applies the brakes to load the rear suspension, then gradually releases throttle while keeping the brakes engaged. This creates a "brake bias," where the rear wheels are on the verge of locking up. As the driver increases throttle, the torque converter begins to engage, and the wheels start to rotate. The key is to find the sweet spot where the wheels are spinning but not locked—this is where the burnout begins. Too much throttle too soon, and the wheels will lock up; too little, and the car will just lurch forward without spinning.

Modern automatics complicate this slightly. Many have traction control systems that will intervene if wheel slip is detected, so the driver must either disable these systems or learn to outmaneuver them. Some automatics also have "kickdown" modes, where aggressive throttle inputs force the transmission into a lower gear, which can help maintain wheel spin. Understanding these systems is crucial for anyone looking to execute a burnout in an automatic RWD.

Key Benefits and Crucial Impact

Burnouts in automatic RWD cars aren’t just about showmanship—they’re a fundamental skill for any driver who wants to understand their vehicle’s limits. The process of learning how to do a burnout in an automatic RWD forces the driver to develop a deeper connection with the car’s behavior, from how the torque converter responds to throttle inputs to how the suspension reacts under heavy lateral loads. This knowledge translates to better handling on the road, whether you’re navigating a twisty backroad or simply reacting to an unexpected obstacle.

Beyond the technical benefits, there’s the sheer thrill of control. A well-executed burnout in an automatic RWD car is a testament to the driver’s ability to work with the machine rather than against it. It’s a reminder that drifting isn’t just about manual transmissions—it’s about understanding the fundamentals of traction, power delivery, and vehicle dynamics. For enthusiasts, this is where the real learning begins.

> "A burnout is the purest form of driving—it’s where the car and the driver become one, where every input is a conversation between man and machine." — Ken Gushi, Drift Coach and Former Formula Drift Champion

Major Advantages

  • Improved Traction Control Understanding: Learning to modulate throttle and brake inputs in an automatic RWD car sharpens the driver’s ability to manage traction in everyday driving, especially in slippery conditions.
  • Enhanced Vehicle Dynamics Awareness: Burnouts reveal how the car’s suspension, drivetrain, and transmission interact under extreme conditions, leading to better overall handling.
  • Adaptability to Modern Automatics: Many drivers assume automatics can’t drift, but mastering burnouts proves otherwise, making it a valuable skill for owners of modern RWD cars like the BMW M5, Nissan GT-R, or Toyota GR Supra.
  • Entertainment and Showmanship: A well-executed burnout is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re at a drift event or just practicing in a legal burnout zone.
  • Preparation for Advanced Drifting Techniques: Once you’ve nailed the burnout, transitioning to more advanced drifting maneuvers (like handbrake turns or power slides) becomes easier.

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Comparative Analysis

While manual transmissions are often considered the gold standard for drifting, automatics have their own strengths. The table below compares key aspects of burnouts in manual vs. automatic RWD cars:
Aspect Manual RWD Burnout Automatic RWD Burnout
Control Over Wheel Slip High—clutch allows precise modulation of torque. Moderate—depends on torque converter lockup and throttle response.
Ease of Execution Easier for beginners due to direct control. More challenging; requires understanding of transmission behavior.
Traction Control Interference Less likely to trigger unless aggressive. More likely to trigger; may require disabling systems.
Modern Adaptability Limited—many modern manuals are single-clutch or automated. High—advanced automatics can be tuned for drifting.
The future of burnouts in automatic RWD cars lies in technology. As automatics become more sophisticated, with features like adaptive shift logic, torque converter modulation, and even AI-driven traction control, the line between manual and automatic drifting will blur further. Companies like Nissan and Toyota are already experimenting with "drifting modes" in their RWD performance cars, where the transmission and chassis systems are calibrated to enhance wheel slip without stalling.

Another trend is the rise of electric RWD vehicles, which present a new challenge: how to execute a burnout without a traditional torque converter. Early experiments with EVs like the Tesla Model S and Nissan Leaf suggest that regenerative braking and instant torque delivery can be used to simulate burnouts, though the technique is still in its infancy. The key innovation here will be developing new control strategies that allow drivers to modulate wheel slip in real time, regardless of the powertrain.

For now, the best way to practice how to do a burnout in an automatic RWD remains a blend of old-school technique and modern tuning. But as technology evolves, so too will the art of the burnout—making it more accessible and exciting than ever.

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Conclusion

Burnouts in automatic RWD cars are often misunderstood, but they represent a fascinating intersection of physics, technology, and skill. The process of learning how to do a burnout in an automatic RWD isn’t just about spinning tires—it’s about understanding the nuances of torque converters, suspension dynamics, and the delicate balance between throttle and brake inputs. While manual transmissions may offer more direct control, automatics bring their own advantages, particularly in modern cars where advanced electronics can be tuned to enhance drifting performance.

The real takeaway is that drifting isn’t limited to one type of transmission. Whether you’re in a manual or an automatic, the fundamentals remain the same: control, precision, and respect for the car’s limits. For enthusiasts, this means a new frontier of exploration—one where the boundaries between manual and automatic drifting continue to dissolve.

Comprehensive FAQs

Q: Can any automatic RWD car do a burnout?

A: Not all automatics are created equal. Cars with torque converter lockup and sufficient rear bias are better suited for burnouts. Front-wheel-drive bias, weak engines, or overly aggressive traction control can make it difficult. Start with a car like a BMW M5, Nissan GT-R, or Toyota GR Supra, which are known for their drivability.

Q: Do I need to disable traction control to do a burnout?

A: Often, yes. Many automatics have traction control systems that will intervene if wheel slip is detected. Disabling it (or putting the car in "sport mode") gives you more control over the burnout. However, practice in a safe, legal area first to understand how your car responds.

Q: What’s the best surface for a burnout in an automatic RWD?

A: A smooth, flat pavement surface with good grip is ideal. Asphalt or concrete works best, as it provides consistent traction. Avoid gravel or loose surfaces, which can lead to unpredictable slides. Legal burnout zones or empty parking lots are great practice spots.

Q: How do I know if my car’s torque converter is suitable for burnouts?

A: A good torque converter should engage smoothly without stalling when you apply throttle. If your car stalls frequently under heavy throttle, it may not be ideal for burnouts. Modern automatics with lockup converters (like those in performance cars) are generally better suited.

Q: Can I practice burnouts in an automatic car on the street?

A: Legally, no. Burnouts are illegal in most jurisdictions unless performed in designated areas (like some drift parks or racing facilities). Practice in a controlled environment where you won’t endanger yourself or others. Always check local laws before attempting any drifting maneuvers.

Q: What’s the biggest mistake beginners make when trying to burnout an automatic RWD?

A: Overthrottling too quickly. Many new drivers mash the pedal, causing the wheels to lock up instead of spinning smoothly. The key is gradual throttle application while using brake bias to load the rear tires. Patience and practice are essential—don’t expect perfection on the first try.

Q: Are there any modifications that can help with automatic RWD burnouts?

A: Yes, but they should be approached carefully. A limited-slip differential (LSD) can improve wheel spin consistency, while a stiffer rear spring or sway bar can help with traction. However, avoid excessive modifications that could make the car unsafe. Start with tuning the existing setup before considering hardware changes.

Q: How do I transition from burnouts to actual drifting in an automatic?

A: Once you’ve mastered the burnout, the next step is learning to control the slide. Use steering inputs to direct the car’s movement while maintaining throttle. Automatics can drift, but you’ll need to work with the transmission’s delays—blipping the throttle and using brake-to-steer techniques can help maintain the slide.

Q: What’s the difference between a burnout and a power slide?

A: A burnout is a controlled wheel spin at a standstill, while a power slide is a drifting maneuver where the rear wheels are spinning while the car is moving. Burnouts are a precursor to power slides, teaching you how to manage wheel slip before transitioning to dynamic drifting.

Q: Can I burnout an automatic car with a CVT?

A: CVTs are more challenging for burnouts due to their continuous variable transmission nature, which doesn’t allow for the same level of wheel slip control as a traditional automatic. However, some CVT-equipped cars (like the Nissan GT-R with a CVT) can still perform burnouts with the right technique—though they require a deeper understanding of the transmission’s behavior.