More specifically, what are the pros/cons of each? Why do some cars use one system over the others and which is “better”?
EDIT: Thanks everyone for the explanations. It’s been very useful.
In: 10
Front wheel drive allows you to package the engine and gearbox tightly together in the front of the car giving better room. Rear wheel drives give better weight distribution and allow you to package the gearbox and other driveline components in the center console so you can have a bigger engine. It also gives better grip during acceleration and gives better handling. 4 wheel drive allow you to connect the front and rear axle together so all wheels turn at the same rate. This is heavier and takes up more room but gives you grip on all four tires. So this is used when there is less grip available such as in mud or on sand. However when going around corners on a hard surface the wheels end up spinning so the handling is terrible. Therefore almost all 4WD systems allow you to disengage this so the vehicle becomes front or rear wheel drive so you can drive it on normal roads. All wheel drive have a looser coupling between the front and rear axle using a center differential or some sort of slip coupling. This gives better handling on road while still allowing power to go to any of the wheels for off road use.
So in general front wheel drives are good for compact cars and vans that need the room and weight. Rear wheel drives are good for road going vehicles with more power and better handling. 4WD is for off road vehicles that might only occasionally go on the road. AWD is best in bad road conditions such as lose gravel or snow.
Latest Answers