Re: What's the difference between 4WD and AWD? - Saab General Bulletin Board - Saabnet.com
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Re: What's the difference between 4WD and AWD?
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Posted by Eric Law [Email] (more from Eric Law) on Tue, 31 May 2005 12:18:13 Share Post by Email
In Reply to: What's the difference between 4WD and AWD?, J, Tue, 31 May 2005 11:52:39
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Well... there's a lot of confusion between the two terms, and the definitions aren't exactly "etched in stone".

But in general, "4WD" refers to systems that have no center differential, mostly older designs as used in pickup trucks and Jeeps. Typically the vehicle will have the rear wheels driven full-time, and a "transfer case" connects drive to the front wheels ("4WD mode") when a lever is moved or a button is pushed. In this case, the front and rear axles are connected together, which makes turning harder. With this type of system, 4WD mode is intended only for use when extra traction is needed, and is otherwise off.

In contrast, AWD systems have a center differential or viscous coupling that allows the front and rear axles (I use the term "axles" loosely here) to turn at slightly different speeds. This eliminates the effect on turning, and allows the system to remain engaged at all times.

In practice as you note in your message, 4WD usually implies a larger more rugged vehicle with high ground clearance that's suitable for off-road use, whereas AWD is usually found on street vehicles.

Eric Law

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