Peter Collins:
Gridlife Drift 4Banger Interview
Continuing on our Gridlife course, we caught up with one of the ASM drivers recently; Peter Collins was gracious to give us a few minutes of his time for a quick 4-pack interview. Peter's vibrant blue BMW at Gridlife was a bit underpowered compared to his white and blue BMW last year, but just the same, big smoke was made and good fun was had. His perspective is a unique one, and we appreciate everything he does both in front of the cameras and behind the scenes.
What was your favorite thing about the weekend at Circuit Legends?
What Gridlife and Lime Rock Park have created is the most diverse event I have ever attended. The amount of different “automotive enthusiasts” all in one location was astonishing. People came together for a common passion, it didn't matter what your age was or if you brought the entire family, there was something for everybody. Looking back at the pictures and the videos from the event, the amount of people on the hillside is all the proof you need.
What's your favorite thing about drifting?
It is just plain FUN. From the learning aspect to going outside your comfort zone there is nothing that hasn't been fun along the way. When you constantly go outside of your comfort zone and you do it successfully, your confidence increases and the fun constantly increases from there. I am a party drifter (I don’t compete) and fun is all that matters. Another aspect I thrive on is being able to share this fun with passengers that have never been in a drift car or even on a track before.
Who is your biggest automotive influence?
Collectively, my biggest influence has been the people I surround myself with. Since the beginning I have been fortunate enough to be part of the group at ASM (ASMotorsports). Our group feeds off each other, developing each other into better drivers and people. We are all successful in what we do, and being cliche, you are who you surround yourself with. Find the influences that make you a better person and the influences that give you knowledge.
What's the biggest thing you want aspiring drifters to know?
It is never too late to start/learn how to drift. In fact, I did not start drifting until I was 39 years old and the last 3 years I have learned that it doesn't matter how you drift, there is a style for everybody and it is at your own pace. Regardless of your skill or ability you are ALWAYS having fun and there should never be any pressure. You do you.
Photos: Nicholas Pascarella // James Woodard
