RWD Vs FWD Vs AWD Explained And How To Handle Them On Track

How do these configurements differ and how should they be handled on track? Motor Trend's Randy Pobst explains all!
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P1eased0nteatme

This will be the comments section of that video…

08/27/2016 - 11:02 |
78 | 0

Then the AWD boi turned up

08/27/2016 - 11:18 |
41 | 2
Joshua Desson

Alex only does RWD. RWD e36 m3, RWD mx5, RWD mustang and RWD tuk tuk.

08/27/2016 - 11:28 |
0 | 0

I also remember a great man saying ‘’Who shall be last, shall be sideways and smiling.’’ I think his name was Clarkson something? ;)

08/27/2016 - 12:32 |
1 | 1
FLixy Madfox

Then there’s front, rear, mid, and front mid engine and all the subdivisions of drive wheels and engine placement

08/27/2016 - 11:29 |
36 | 2

What if I told you there are FWD cars that can outhandle 4wd cars? What if I told you there are 4WD cars that can outhandle FWD cars?

It’s all down to the specific car really. Also, if you need to google how to handle your car, you probably aren’t at a skill level to be pushing it to its limit.

Best way to learn is to drive somewhere you can f__k up and not hit stuff/people.

08/28/2016 - 11:01 |
0 | 4
Anonymous

FWD is a compromise, not an advantage. Just like hot hatchbacks.

08/27/2016 - 11:32 |
21 | 11
P1eased0nteatme

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Can be better in certain scenarios.

08/27/2016 - 11:34 |
20 | 2
Anonymous

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Yeah, that’s why they are used in rallying so much.

08/27/2016 - 12:09 |
2 | 1
Dave 12

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

No. Watch some touring cars. Then you’ll see situations with very similar performance stats where it’s better to be one or the other. More frequently fwd tbh when it comes to tiny british tracks. Thruxton = RWD track. Brand Hatch = FWD track and so on.

08/27/2016 - 19:00 |
6 | 0
Caro

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

Everything in motorsports are compromises. If you need examples, here are some:
Aero: Low Drag Vs. High Downforce
Gear ratios: Acceleration Vs. Top Speed
Tyre pressure: Grip Vs. Low Resistance
Everything is a compromise. Tuning is about finding the best compromise for the situation.

08/27/2016 - 22:29 |
5 | 1
Anonymous

I just can’t stand watching this guy… I’m sure he’s a nice fella and full of knowledge but something about his presenting just rubs me the wrong way.

I’m sure you guys follow the same feeds I do… is the airbag truck exploding and killing a woman next?

08/27/2016 - 12:09 |
3 | 1
Anonymous

He wouldn’t be a bad host for top gear

08/27/2016 - 13:43 |
0 | 0
Stubaru

Actually, Im a big fan of the EK9 Type R, so I would buy it if money wasnt a concern.

08/27/2016 - 14:00 |
6 | 1
P1eased0nteatme

In reply to by Stubaru

you are learning well young padawan

08/27/2016 - 15:28 |
2 | 0
Poke

FWD= Practicality
AWD= Traction
RWD= Speed

08/27/2016 - 14:16 |
6 | 2
Stubaru

In reply to by Poke

FWD also could be for handiling

08/27/2016 - 14:34 |
8 | 0
iCypher(Joel Chan)

In reply to by Poke

More like: FWD: Practicality
AWD: Combating Snow
RWD: What Chris Harris calls ‘-Correct-Wheel-Drive’.

08/28/2016 - 01:16 |
1 | 1
stealthed

Awd with rear bias is best of both worlds. 50/50 awd like most wrx-ses (and other non type RA I believe) gives more grip, but understeers more without a swaybar upgrade so it’s still a compromise for the tarmac. Better when going on gravel though. Still everything works with the right technique.

08/27/2016 - 22:11 |
0 | 0
Jack the Car Guy

Perfect Timing

08/27/2016 - 23:10 |
2 | 0