Standard & Limited Slip Differentials
The disadvantage of a standard differential is that it will allow a wheel, which cannot grip a slippery surface to spin at twice the speed of the crown wheel, leaving the opposite wheel useless.

This is because the differential always applies equal torque (turning effort) to each road wheel. If one wheel is spinning, doing no work, the other wheel will not move and not do any work either.

The problem is overcome in some high powered cars by a limited-slip differential (LSD), using self-locking or frictional devices.
In one common type of LSD, clutch cones are fitted between the differential bevel gears and the cage in which they are housed. Springs between the gears press the conical surfaces into contact, creating a frictional resistance to any difference between the speeds of the gear and the cage.

The resistance is not enough to stop the differential action when the car is following a curved path; but it builds up when the driving torque applied to the differential is increased – when using full throttle in a low gear, for example.

Driving torque tends to force the differential bevel gears appart, so adding to the load on the cones and increasing their resistance to speed differences between the half-shafts. This prevents wheelspin. Otherwise spin together.

Limited-slip differentials in a drift car
The LSD was designed to control wheel spin however in a drift car, wheel spin is exactly what you want but even power to each wheel is a necessity. Some people choose to weld the differential locked with no slip at all. But if your drift car is also used on the road a LSD would be the better option. There are many different types of LSD differentials some are more practicle for racing.

Standard LSD
Good for limmited drifting however will easily wear out with prolonged drifting. Suitable on the street as it is locked but allows slip when turning corners, hence the name Limited Slip Differential.

Locked Differential
The cheapest option for drift. Otherwise known as the Centerlink saver. This is as simple as welding up the spider cogs, hence giving the name locked diff as there is no give. A locked diff can cause axle snappage and will cause excessive tyre wear. These diffs are very predictable for drifting as they are locked all the time.

Mechanical 2-Way LSD
The strongest and most popular Drift option. This the choice of D1 drifters as it is the most predictable for drifting. A 2-way will lock under acceleration and decelerating but will give in turning. This is the most expensive type of LSD and also expensive to repair.

Mechanical 1.5-Way LSD
Another stronger option LSD, allows more give in turning than the 2-Way option and only 1/2 locks under deceleration. Just as expensive as the 2-Way LSD.

Many cars fitted with LSD's have a warning label, which can be found in the glove box.