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Summary
  • In a front-wheel drive (FWD) system, the drive axle shafts transfer torque to the front drive wheels. This means that the front wheels are responsible for power delivery as well as steering.
  • The engine drives the rear wheels in a rear-wheel drivetrain (RWD). Torque from the transmission passes through the driveshaft before it reaches the differential, which increases the torque delivered to the rear drive wheels.
  • Most vehicles with an FWD system have fewer components, making them lighter and more fuel efficient than RWD vehicles.

The powertrain is responsible for transferring engine torque to the drive wheels. But depending on the vehicle, two or four wheels from the front or rear can receive power. These powertrain configurations have their pros and cons, and the perception of their advantages and disadvantages can vary, depending on the driver’s preferences. Let’s find out the differences among front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems.

What Is a Front Wheel Drive System?

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Vehicles with FWD systems are pretty common, mainly because manufacturers find it easier to produce them compared to other drivetrains. Image source: Hyundai Newsroom.

In a front-wheel drive system, the drive axle shafts transfer torque to the front drive wheels. This means that the front wheels are responsible for power delivery as well as steering. An FWD powertrain uses a transaxle, which combines the transmission and differential in one assembly.

In the case of most FWD vehicles, they use transverse engines while others use longitudinal ones.

Vehicles with FWD systems are pretty common, mainly because manufacturers find it easier to produce them compared to other drivetrains. Producing this type lets carmakers create an efficient engine, body, and drivetrain combination while cutting expenses in terms of tooling and development.

One of the setbacks for an FWD system, however, is that it has the tendency to “torque steer,” which refers to the torque’s influence on a vehicle’s steering. Upon acceleration, torque steer can cause the vehicle to tug or veer to one side. Repairing transaxle issues for an FWD powertrain can also be costly because it involves pulling the engine. The process also requires removing the subframe and not the engine.

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Some of the most popular FWD vehicles in the market include:

What Is a Rear Wheel Drive System?

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The engine drives the rear wheels in an RWD drivetrain. Image source: Mazda USA Newsroom.

The engine drives the rear wheels in an RWD drivetrain. Most of the time, this setup has a longitudinal engine and transmission instead of a transverse one. Torque from the transmission passes through the driveshaft before it reaches the differential. The differential also increases the torque delivered to the rear drive wheels by reducing speed and changing torque direction through the axle shafts.

Most race cars have an RWD system because it offers better handling, braking, and acceleration capabilities than an FWD system due to the weight distribution. This is also one of the reasons why RWD vehicles can drift better than most FWD systems. Some of its drawbacks, however, include limited interior and trunk space because of the transmission and driveshaft placement.

Some of the most popular RWD vehicles in the market include:

Front Wheel Drive vs. Rear Wheel Drive System

Aside from the engine’s position, FWD and RWD systems have several differences.

First, vehicles with an FWD system have fewer components than an RWD system, making it lighter and often more fuel efficient. And because the engine is directly above the front wheels in an FWD setup, a vehicle with this system provides better traction when climbing hills and driving on slippery roads.

Another difference between an FWD and RWD setup is that the latter has a more even weight distribution and better acceleration than the former because of the load transfer. Having an RWD setup can also make towing heavy objects or vehicles easier compared to an FWD system because the separated transmission and differential are bigger and stronger.

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What Is a Four Wheel Drive System?

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In a four-wheel drive (4WD) system, torque is sent to all four wheels, giving it twice the ability to transmit driving forces. Image source: Toyota USA Newsroom.

In a four-wheel drive (4WD) system, torque is sent to all four wheels, giving it twice the ability to transmit driving forces. Depending on the vehicle, it can have a part-time, full-time, or variable 4WD drivetrain.

Most trucks have a 4WD setup because it offers increased traction when off-roading or driving under extreme weather conditions. One downside to this setup is that it consumes more fuel, which is why a lot of 4WD vehicles come with a transfer case that lets the driver choose between 2 or 4WD modes. Many 4WD trucks also have front wheel locking hubs that can be switched on or remain in a free-wheeling position to improve fuel efficiency by reducing rotating mass.

Transfer cases can be automatic as well. In most cases, RWD vehicles have a transfer case that lets the driver switch between 4WD and AWD.

Some of the most popular 4WD vehicles in the market include:

All Wheel Drive vs. Four Wheel Drive Systems

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Most all-wheel-drive setups are full-time systems designed for year-round driving. Image source: Honda Newsroom.

There is some confusion when it comes to the difference between an all-wheel drive and a four-wheel drive system, which can be attributed to the fact that both drivetrains transfer torque to all four wheels. But what sets a 4WD setup apart from an AWD system is that the driver has the choice to activate 2WD mode. Meanwhile, an AWD system is almost always turned on. Most all-wheel-drive setups are full-time systems designed for year-round driving. You might also notice that 4WD setups can usually be found in trucks while many sedans and SUVs sport an AWD drivetrain.

There’s also been a long-standing debate on which is better between the two systems. But like many vehicle setups, the best one will depend on the driver’s preferences. Those looking to get extra traction when driving under harsh weather conditions or on rough road surfaces can opt for a vehicle with an AWD drivetrain. Meanwhile, those who are planning to use their vehicles for heavy hauling can take the 4WD route.

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Some of the most popular AWD vehicles in the market include:

What’s the Best Drivetrain?

There’s really no definitive answer as to what the best drivetrain is. Each type offers its own advantages and disadvantages over the others, and your preferences will be the ultimate force in determining which setup is best suited for the environment and condition you’ll be driving in.

FWD vehicles are mainly used for everyday driving and are recognized to be the most common configuration, and RWD systems are typically used in performance cars. Meanwhile, 4WD vehicles are ideal for towing heavy cargo or off-roading, while AWD systems are best suited for driving under harsh weather conditions.

Where to Get New Drivetrain Components for Your Vehicle

Keep your vehicle on the road for longer by replacing failed or damaged drivetrain components as soon as needed. The good news is that here at CarParts.com, shopping for OE-grade drivetrain parts has never been easier.

Placing an order on our website or mobile app takes just a few clicks. Our built-in vehicle selector makes it easy to check for a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of makes and models. You can also use our search filters to further narrow down your search according to your preferred brand or price range.

In case your new parts don’t fit, simply file a claim within 60 days of purchase through our returns center, and we’ll give your money back.

Enjoy fast shipping times when you shop for the parts you need online. Our distribution centers are equipped with the latest technology to make sure your order arrives in a matter of days.

Check out our drivetrain products today!

About The Authors
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Reviewed By Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Tony Harlin is a Master Gas and Diesel Diagnostic Technician with over 18 years of experience. He works full-time at a large independent automotive shop as a driveability and repair technician working on all types of vehicles with a focus on diesels. ASE certifications include A1-A9, L1 and L2, as well as X1.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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