D1 was actually started in 2001 in Japan. Option video had the first ever drift compitition in 1989, their 'Ikaten' comps. Most of todays D1 drivers came from those Ikaten comps.
And no, a spoiler is not cheating, however, I think the vertical polycarb inserts are. For one reason only, that it allows the slip angle of the car to be extended, therefore he can slide further before he spins out. I dont think you should have those, just increase steering angle. Ueo Katsuhiro in japan has a massive 74 degrees of steering angle in his Hachi-Roku (1984-1987 Toyota Corolla GTS in America)
He can get more angle than in that picture, thats about 65 degrees.
As for AutoX, I think that it's really cool, It allows the Lower powered cars to finally shine against some huge monster hp car.