I want to build a drifter from scratch from about $180.....I already have a radio, so everything besides that

I'm completely new to drifting so I want to know what you people have to say

do you mean buying all parts individually, or you just want to assemble a kit, because if your buying individual parts to build a car, it will be very costly and youd be much better off buying a kit and just building it yourself

then again you can build a drifter out of many different chassis parts from other cars. Id say gofor it, but it will take more than 180 bucks. If you want to save, get a tt01 or a ta05 kit.

really....i thought it would be cheaper considering its electric?.............what kind of drift set up should I get for $180-$200

if you already have a radio,you can pick up any of the tamiya TT-01 kits,with the esc,for about $100.00-$120.00. your best bet,would be to get the TT-01D kit,which has bearings,and some other essential upgrades,for $135.00 from most suppliers. thenrun the stock drift tires with that kit,or,pick up some black ABS pipe,(from RV/motorhome supply companies,check your yellow pages) and make your own drift tires. any decent peak charger,and some good nimh stick packs,and have fun.

should the motor be upgraded?

that is entirely up to you. an aluminum prop shaft is highly reccomended,and,if not purchasing the TT-01D,a full set of ball bearings. the TT-01D comes with a sport tuned motor,that works well,but,any good 27T rebuildable stock motor works great.