Are you torn between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive? Need to know the difference? A lot of people are asking me about these drive systems and their differences.
Well, to give you satisfaction on your curiosity, then this blog post is for you.
I’ll talk about the difference between an AWD and 4WD system, how these system works, and which drive system will suit you best.
So without further ado, lets discuss AWD and 4WD!
What is AWD and 4WD?
AWD or simply the abbreviation of all-wheel drive, is a type of drive system where all four wheels can gain traction or resistance independently of each other.
There are several designs for all-wheel drive as some can give power to all of its wheels on-demand, while most AWD run power to all wheels in real time or all the time.
What does this mean? Well, in 2WD, 100% of torque from the engine are distributed to the rear or front wheels, but not both. In AWD, the torque is equally divided into four wheels, so no wheels are free-wheeling while in motion.
This is because of all-wheel drive’s three differentials or gear box components in different parts of the vehicle – front, center and rear.
Also, the four wheel function of an AWD has no locking front, rear or central action unlike with the 4WD system. This makes the system ideal for highway terrain and high speed driving. This is also the reason why some manufacturers use AWD system on their cars such as Subaru, Honda and many others.
What about 4WD or four-wheel drive?
Four-wheel drive system uses a transfer case between the front angles and rear one. To use the four-wheel function, both angles are locked for optimum off-road performance.
4WD is typically find on truck and sports utility vehicle and is meant for heavy duty hauling, towing and all off-road traction requirements.
Unlike AWD which is permanently in all-wheel drive mode, 4WD vehicles can switch between four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive. This is the reason why utility 4×4 vehicles can either be used in the city or any off-road terrain.
AWD or 4WD? Which is the Best System for You?
Both systems have their pros and cons. So which drive system if best for you? Well, it depends on your preferences and needs.
An AWD system is often found in sedans, crossovers and light SUV’s, and are designed more to provide better road performance and speed. With all four wheels having power, you will get faster acceleration as all four wheels have torque.
In contrary, 4WD can’t go faster than 100 KPH in a four-wheel configuration. Otherwise, you risk damaging your differentials, engine and transmission. However, 4WD have more power and acceleration especially in off-road terrain. An AWD will survive a light trail but it isn’t an ideal car for heavy off-road terrain.
An AWD has the ability to maintain adequate tire rotation required for turning, so the front tires go at the same speed. But in 4WD, you will get more friction and weight, plus all four wheels may not be travelling at the same speed, which is the reason why 4WD can’t go fast once the 4×4 system is engaged.
Understand the difference?
If you are shopping for a sedan, crossover or light-size SUV, then I suggest that don’t settle for front or rear-wheel drive systems (2WD), but go for the top-of the line spec which is AWD. You’ll get more with all-wheel drive system compared to a two-wheel drive system.
But if you need a utility truck for your business and off-road hobby, then a four-by-four drive system is the perfect vehicle for you!
Image Credits:
MVS Mobile Small Engine Repairs Inc.
https://www.mvsottawa.com/all-wheel-drive-awd-vs-4-wheel-drive-4wd/
