I agree with the whole “start with a stock car” thing.
The only reason you should modify a car should be because you as a DRIVER have “outgrown” your car as far as your skill level is concerned.
It’s better to be able to drive a stock car 100% than a modified car at 60%.
At first when you start drifting, the DRIVER is the limiting factor, then when the CAR starts becoming the limiting factor… modify it to suit your needs.
EDIT: Let me make it clear that safety mods don’t really fall under the above guidelines… remember kids, safety first! 