- Both systems date back as far as the automobile itself, but the first production uses were from the German company Stower (FWD, 1932), and the British automaker Jensen (AWD, 1966).
- Whereas the sole purpose of FWD is to increase directional stability (the tendency to resist unwanted movement), AWD is designed to offer the all-around traction of four wheel drive in all conditions.
- Because all of the engine's power must be channeled through the same tires responsible for turning, all FWD cars understeer (the tendency to resist changing direction).
- The main advantage that AWD has over FWD is that AWD allows power to be transferred between the front and rear axles when slippage at either end is detected. This maintains the car's handling balance and prevents understeer.
- Because they are more predictable in turns (especially under icy or wet conditions) modern AWD cars are almost always safer and more agile than an equivalent FWD car.
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