Can you pretty much buy any on-road AWD RC, put drift wheels/tires on it and it will drift? Thanks in advance for any info and apologies if this a stupid question!

Yes, but except the toycars from Radioshack, Timy etc. but in fact every 1/10 scale rc touring car (190mm width can be used for driftig by changing the tyres with drifting tyres. You also don't need the fastest motor around, even a brushed Mabuschi 540s will do the job.