Dave Bastin: Meet the Drift Star Taking Classic Japfest by Storm

For UK motorsport enthusiasts, the name Dave Bastin is synonymous with commitment. A driver renowned for his 'no-lifting' philosophy, Bastin attacks the circuit with a level of aggression and skill that makes him a standout performer. His weapon of choice? The legendary Toyota Corolla AE86, a car he has transformed into a pure, unfiltered drift machine. All of this will be on full display at Classic Japfest at the iconic Goodwood Motor Circuit, where Bastin is set to deliver one of his wildest runs yet as part of the Drift Kings demonstration.

The Icon: Dave Bastin's Toyota Corolla AE86

In the world of drifting, few cars command the respect of the Toyota Corolla AE86. It's an icon, and Dave Bastin's version is a testament to its legacy. This isn't a showpiece; it's a purpose-built machine. Stripped of any unnecessary weight and focused purely on performance, the AE86 is perfectly matched to Bastin's driving style, allowing him to push the car to its absolute limits with no compromise.

The Journey into Drifting

So, what inspires a driver to pursue such an extreme motorsport? For Dave Bastin, the spark was ignited by watching JDM Option, the iconic Japanese drift videos that brought the sport to a global audience. Seeing the controlled chaos and skill on screen was enough to convince him that drifting was his calling.

From Nissan S14 to Toyota AE86

Every expert was once a beginner, and Bastin's journey started with a Nissan S14. While it may lack the cult status of his current AE86, the S14 was the car that got him hooked. It provided the foundation from which his skills grew, proving you don't need the most famous car to start mastering the art of drifting.

Expert Advice for Aspiring Drifters

For anyone looking to follow in his tyre tracks, Dave Bastin's advice is refreshingly straightforward: "Practice, practice, practice." He emphasises that mastering the fundamentals is more important than building an overly complex car from the outset. Consistent practice and a focus on improving your skills are the keys to progress in the demanding world of drifting.

Ambitions and Dream Machines

Looking to the future, Bastin has his sights set on the expansive tracks of America. He dreams of drifting on circuits with wide-open spaces that demand serious commitment, allowing a driver to go full throttle and truly stretch a car's capabilities.

The Ultimate Drift Build

If budget were no object, Bastin's dream project would centre around raw power. He would build a machine powered by a six-rotor engine, creating a high-revving beast that perfectly encapsulates his driving philosophy of unadulterated power and aggression.

A Career Highlight and What's Next

Reflecting on his career so far, competing at Mondello Park for the LZ World Tour stands out as a major highlight for Bastin. The opportunity to drive alongside some of the world's best in front of an international audience is a memory that underscores his progression in the sport.

What to Expect at Classic Japfest

So, what can the crowd expect from Dave Bastin at the upcoming Classic Japfest? In his own words, the goal is simple: "No lifting." Spectators should prepare for raw speed, extreme angles, and a no-holds-barred spectacle. The Drift Kings demonstration promises to bring out the wildest performances, and with his iconic AE86, Dave Bastin is sure to put on a show that won't disappoint any motorsport fan.