When it comes to Grand Theft Auto V, few things are as iconic—and game-changing—as the drive-by. In a game where high-speed chases, gunfights, and ambushes define the online experience, the art of the drive-by kill has evolved into a PvP meta of its own. Over the years, especially on platforms like PS5, the community has seen certain drive-by strategies reshape how battles are fought in Los Santos. Let’s take a look at 18 of the most impactful drive-bys that have left a lasting mark on the GTA 5 PvP landscape.

1. The Armored Kuruma Blitz

This was one of the first major drive-by styles to dominate public lobbies. Players using the armored Kuruma realized they could absorb tons of gunfire while spraying from the windows—perfect for ambushes and bounty hunting.

2. Oppressor Mk II Fly-Bys

Technically not a traditional drive-by, but the explosive rounds and agile air mobility turned this into a PvP nightmare. It’s one of the reasons many players now prefer to buy GTA 5 account builds that already include anti-Oppressor loadouts.

3. Drive-By with the AP Pistol

The moment players realized the AP Pistol could be used full-auto while driving, it became the staple weapon for almost every mobile shootout. Its high rate of fire and large mag size made it perfect for hit-and-run tactics.

4. Bati 801 Sniping

Some of the most skilled players began using bikes like the Bati 801 to lean back, aim with precision, and hit targets with marksman rifles mid-ride. High-risk, high-reward gameplay.

5. Lowrider Ambushes

When Benny’s update hit, custom lowriders became a PvP style statement. Hydraulic-assisted pop-out attacks became popular among players looking to make their mark with style.

6. Jet Ski Raids

Water-based drive-bys weren’t common—until a few clever crews began attacking luxury yachts and island spawn points from Jet Skis. Fast, nimble, and hard to hit.

7. PS5 GTA Account Exclusive Tactics

The faster load times and smoother frame rates on next-gen consoles like the PS5 opened up new angles for drive-bys. You’re more likely to see high-speed corner-shooting with precise aim assist among players using a PS5 GTA account.

8. CEO Convoy Strike

Organized players started using convoys of SUVs with gunmen hanging out of windows, coordinated via voice chat. It felt like something out of a Hollywood heist movie—and it worked.

9. BMX Ambushes

Yes, it sounds ridiculous—but some elite players began using BMX bikes to sneak through alleyways and then drive-by with pistols. Their hitbox was small, and they moved unpredictably.

10. Phantom Wedge Chaos

The sheer momentum of the Phantom Wedge combined with a heavy-duty turret made this drive-by devastating. Few PvP setups could counter a well-aimed Phantom rush.

11. Gunrunning Mobile Ops

As weaponized vehicles rolled out, teams began syncing gunfire with turreted delivery trucks. You’d get hit before you even realized it was a PvP setup.

12. Nightshark Side Shots

The Nightshark’s armor allowed players to stay mobile under fire. Skilled shooters exploited its side-window angles for prolonged drive-bys in PvE and PvP encounters.

13. Deluxo Skim Drives

With hover mode, players on Deluxos would glide just above street level and execute coordinated drive-bys—blending air and ground combat in a unique way.

14. Speedo Custom Raids

The Speedo Custom, fully upgraded with armor and front-mounted guns, became the sleeper hit for quick PvP engagements in narrow city streets.

15. Solo NPC Disguise Tactics

By blending in with NPCs in traffic, players would casually pull up to a rival and execute a drive-by before anyone noticed. It was guerrilla warfare at its finest.

16. Heist Exit Strafing

During Heist exits, some teams figured out how to set up vehicles for instant drive-by defense as they left the scene. Timing was everything—and those who nailed it walked away clean.

17. Arena War Vehicle Flanks

Using cars like the Sasquatch or Imperator, players began combining ramming power with side-seat gunners for devastating flanks in tight urban PvP.

18. U4N-Inspired Tuner Crew Tactics

Many players using optimized accounts from services like U4N began favoring sleek tuner cars for speed-based hit-and-run tactics. Their cars were faster, handling was cleaner, and modded weapon loadouts meant every drive-by counted.

Whether you’re a casual player or a PvP veteran, drive-bys have shaped how we play GTA Online. And as the meta continues to evolve with each update and patch, staying ahead of the curve often means rethinking not just your vehicles or weapons—but your whole strategy. If you're looking to jump in with a competitive edge, many players choose to buy GTA 5 account setups or upgrade to a PS5 GTA account to experience smoother, faster gameplay right out of the gate. Just remember: no matter how wild the meta gets, it’s the creativity behind the wheel that keeps Los Santos interesting.