The Differences Between AWD and 4WD

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 12 січ 2017
  • If you, like many people, thought that AWD and 4WD were the same thing, then you might surprised to learn that they are in fact separate entities. Here are the key differences!
    SUBSCRIBE: bit.ly/CTSubscribe
    VISIT OUR SHOP: shop.carthrottle.com/
    SNAPCHAT! bit.ly/CTSNAP
    ---- Follow Car Throttle ----
    Subscribe to Car Throttle: bit.ly/CTSubscribe
    On our website: www.carthrottle.com
    On Facebook: / carthrottle
    On Twitter: / carthrottle
    ---- Music by ----
    Tom Kent: www.tomkentmusic.co.uk
    UA-cam: / tomkentmusic
    --- Credits ---
    Videos submitted by
    Mantas Kutka
    Tom Clark
    Audi Quattro S1 / Leo Pavlík test
    • Audi Quattro S1 / Leo ...
    4WD
    www.flickr.com/photos/gavinmu...
    Defender offroad action @Fursten Forrest
    • Defender offroad actio...
    "Novi Golf Variant 4motion 2.0 R BMT DSG (300 HP)" by Porsche Ljubljana
    • Novi Golf Variant 4mot...
  • Авто та транспорт

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,5 тис.

  • @NoName-zz9ls
    @NoName-zz9ls 7 років тому +320

    -knows the difference
    -still watches video

  • @mark7067
    @mark7067 7 років тому +345

    It seems like people are more confused than ever. Good job.

    • @laavoi5
      @laavoi5 7 років тому +9

      wow no replies
      edit: oh shit

    • @MrPaukann
      @MrPaukann 6 років тому

      Bad job. 4wd is awd on 4 wheeled vehicle. Check in a dictionary.

  • @mgcharoudin
    @mgcharoudin 7 років тому +525

    What if you have an AWD Reliant Robin? Is it a 3WD?

  • @statesidesupercars
    @statesidesupercars 7 років тому +37

    1:06 the Audi S1 Quattro... what a STUNNING car.

  • @jakejake3798
    @jakejake3798 7 років тому +1261

    I thought they were the same. All wheels giving power

    • @realkilju
      @realkilju 7 років тому +6

      Jake Jake me too

    • @scottverge938
      @scottverge938 7 років тому +63

      A lot of people do unfortunately.
      They aren't and using 4 wheel drive on road can get you into trouble as it can be unpredictable.

    • @Rome1017Lights
      @Rome1017Lights 7 років тому +11

      Jake Jake they literally just explained the difference

    • @realkilju
      @realkilju 7 років тому +10

      Scott Verge we kbow we just watched this video

    • @lapamful
      @lapamful 7 років тому +107

      They do, but AWD varies the amount of power delivery between all 4 wheels. 4WD doesn't, and is only used in certain circumstances...
      In normal driving with AWD, if you're going around a corner (as the video explains), the inside wheels rotate less times than the outside wheels because the inside wheels are travelling a shorter distance. So the power delivery needs to vary between the inside and outside wheels because if all 4 wheels rotated in total unison with each other, you could have excess wear and tear to the inside tires, at best, causing massive understeer, or at worst, damage an axle.
      However, there are times when you want all 4 wheels rotating at exactly the same speed such as if you're off-roading and stuck in snow or mud and one wheel's spinning and you're not moving anywhere. In that scenario, power is only being delivered to the spinning wheel (as he says in the video, the path with least resistance).
      In that case you want totally even distribution of power/all wheels rotating in unison so that the non-spinning wheels receive as much power as the spinning wheel so that you can move.
      Sorry, I hope that's not too long! lol

  • @scottverge938
    @scottverge938 7 років тому +118

    Additionally AWD and 4WD don't make you invincible in the snow and ice. They help you get moving but aren't going to do much to help you stop. And 4WD can be tricky in slippery conditions at higher speeds.
    A Subaru with winter tires will likely outperform a lifted dodge truck on big mud tires in slippery winter conditions ;)

    • @Epotheros
      @Epotheros 7 років тому +3

      What you mean to say is a Viper with studded winter tires will outperform a Subaru with all seasons on the snow and ice.

    • @birdsrule8608
      @birdsrule8608 7 років тому

      Epotheros why?

    • @Epotheros
      @Epotheros 7 років тому +14

      birds rule To nail home the concept that a lot of people get way too overconfident when driving in bad conditions if they have AWD and 4WD.

    •  7 років тому

      Scott Verge
      That's to do with mass though :P

    • @birdsrule8608
      @birdsrule8608 7 років тому +5

      Epotheros oh I get it now. but even then Subarus will outperform a viper in snow assuming both driver know what they are doing. but yeah you are right people think just because they've got a 4x4 or a AWD they are invisible. which is funny becuase its those cars you see crashed into a phone pole.

  • @MyLonewolf25
    @MyLonewolf25 7 років тому +254

    4wd is selectable
    Awd is not
    Awd can have a central diff
    4wd doesn't and has a transfer case
    Awd and 4wd can both have front and rear diffs of any kind

    • @Mountain-Man-3000
      @Mountain-Man-3000 7 років тому +37

      MyLonewolf25 This is a better explanation than the video.

    •  7 років тому +4

      MyLonewolf25
      A Landrover Defender is classed as a 4wd vehicle but doesn't adhere to your definitions.

    • @MyLonewolf25
      @MyLonewolf25 7 років тому +2

      Chris Williams that's because it's a name and not truly 4wd
      It just has a transfer case that goes from low and high range

    •  7 років тому +5

      +MyLonewolf25
      And is also classified as a 4wd system and always has been.
      You can choose low or high or you can lock the transfer case but 2WD is not selectable, the system is always 4WD.
      Your definition of 4wd is a vehicle which has a transfer case/box... this is also what the Defender happens to have.
      A full-time 4WD vehicle is able to operate safely on the road with its centre case unlocked, then traverse loose terrain by locking that centre case.

    • @Dake21
      @Dake21 7 років тому +3

      4wd can also have a central differential like shown in the video.

  • @patrickkerr6159
    @patrickkerr6159 7 років тому +4

    This one of those things you learn that just makes you feel like you should of known all along but you learn so much out of it and in such a small space of time! Thanks Car Throttle! Always great content!!

  • @veemacks7255
    @veemacks7255 7 років тому +320

    Shame there wasn't a summary of which well known systems are AWD and 4WD. For example Audi's "Quattro", BMW's "X" drive, Mercedes's "4Matic" and so on.

    • @christynolan1839
      @christynolan1839 7 років тому +31

      Alien OrSutin you can't mention awd without a scooby

    • @seantaylor2683
      @seantaylor2683 7 років тому +25

      Those are all AWD, 4WD is what you'll find on dedicated off-roaders and pick-ups like Land Cruisers and Hilux's

    • @lukecottam
      @lukecottam 7 років тому +5

      Sean Taylor as i understand it, BMW'S X Drive isnt permanent 4wd (at least it wasnt on my wife's X1). Audi Quattro is AWD but im not sure about mercedes system.

    • @veemacks7255
      @veemacks7255 7 років тому +1

      I'm not sure either about Mercedes. I've got 4Matic on mine and there's no switches in the car for locking 2 or 4, it's all controlled smartly. I know that on icy roads I can do donuts, or at least a half donut, so it's mostly RWD.

    • @seantaylor2683
      @seantaylor2683 7 років тому +8

      I looked it up and all three are full time AWD systems. Basically, if you can't turn it off it's AWD. 4WD is not on all the time and will have a transfer case splitting power(which will generally have reduction gears). Both systems can utilize locking differentials but I believe it is more common on 4WD systems

  • @justmechanicthings
    @justmechanicthings 7 років тому +515

    What about the Mercedes 6x6 G wagon. where does that fit in all this?

    • @hazardousfromage
      @hazardousfromage 7 років тому +12

      Thee Adjudicator AWD

    • @LukeWoessner98
      @LukeWoessner98 7 років тому +71

      With 5 diffs and many power split options, I think the 6x6 warrants it own video.

    • @GloryHoleBased
      @GloryHoleBased 7 років тому +33

      4WD ofcourse

    • @mattyb120
      @mattyb120 7 років тому +9

      A combination of both almost, 4 wheels are AWD like the land rover and then select drive for the other 2, at least thats how a lot 6x6 vehicles work.

    • @SamSveistrup
      @SamSveistrup 7 років тому +3

      It's a real bike

  • @BlackPanthaa
    @BlackPanthaa 7 років тому +477

    ALLLLL WHEEEL D-

  • @limited9024
    @limited9024 7 років тому +1122

    I edited this comment so the replies make no sense

    • @Ayayron_e3
      @Ayayron_e3 7 років тому +44

      Live, Ride, Die ride*

    • @KasamS
      @KasamS 7 років тому +58

      Live, Ride, Die 1wd

    • @MrIrish1
      @MrIrish1 7 років тому +17

      Live, Ride, Die put a lady on the back while you drive and let her vibrate till she wants to fuck you.. thats what crotch rockets were designed for!!!!!

    • @RickTrajan
      @RickTrajan 7 років тому +1

      nice rwd bro

    • @RickTrajan
      @RickTrajan 7 років тому +1

      Kasam how about those conventional cars with no limited slip? fwd will become 1wd too when it starts to lose traction.

  • @tharimahmed9679
    @tharimahmed9679 7 років тому +383

    Hey Car Throttle
    FWD
    RWD
    AWD
    Which do u prefer?

    • @CarThrottle
      @CarThrottle  7 років тому +299

      +Tharim Ahmed All of the above.

    • @mlpellicci4258
      @mlpellicci4258 7 років тому +3

      Car Throttle will you be attending the auto show over the weekend

    • @tharimahmed9679
      @tharimahmed9679 7 років тому +16

      Car Throttle OMG you replied!! keep up the great content.

    • @user-po6hn9id1t
      @user-po6hn9id1t 7 років тому +2

      +Car Throttle you forgot to mention that you can have a short range selection in 4wd

    • @currythegoatofmankindlastn3678
      @currythegoatofmankindlastn3678 7 років тому +11

      awd is the future.

  • @Sal12538
    @Sal12538 7 років тому +34

    is it magic that I was just talking with my dad yesterday about 4wd and Awd and you guys post a video? Damn.

    • @wtfuredead
      @wtfuredead 7 років тому +6

      Nah, it's called probabilities.

    • @veecemx
      @veecemx 7 років тому +3

      wtfuredead Nah again, it's called coincidences

    • @wtfuredead
      @wtfuredead 7 років тому +4

      Clorox Bleach probabilities (can) manifest into coincidences, and coincidences can be understood as probabilities ^^

    • @Sal12538
      @Sal12538 7 років тому

      nah nah nah nah nah nah BATMAN

    • @wtfuredead
      @wtfuredead 7 років тому +2

      northweezie1 not cool dude. First of all, he looks asian, like from India or Taiwan. Second of all, if he where from a conflict zone that could trigger some nasty sheet inside his mind (like bad memories, bad feeling, etc)

  • @Frosty5004
    @Frosty5004 7 років тому +193

    It's funny that almost everyone who follows this channel knows about cars and then you explain how 4-wheel-drive works.. :D

    • @Frosty5004
      @Frosty5004 7 років тому +3

      Still good tho!

    • @zloychechen5150
      @zloychechen5150 7 років тому +1

      what's interesting is that this doesn't translate to any language. say, in russian, they are called the same, with the addition of an explanation of the type afterwards, if needed.
      i say, this is all twaddle. i don't give a fuck, and neither should anyone, imo.

    • @Frosty5004
      @Frosty5004 7 років тому

      Undecided ALMOST everyone....

    • @alvihysa7961
      @alvihysa7961 7 років тому +1

      MEK i know a lot about cars but this is something that sounds easy so ppl dont talk about it . I only learned it like 1 year ago. So thats why i think he made it

    • @noradlark167
      @noradlark167 7 років тому +16

      I am not subscriber, just randomly clicked :)

  • @AR1G3
    @AR1G3 7 років тому +11

    Actually the difference is very small. If you look at the litteral meaning AWD means all wheels are driven and 4WD means four wheels are driven. The terms don't say how and when. The only reason people think there is a major difference is because that is how they were marketed.
    Back when they started using AWD systems manufactures didn't want to put 4WD or 4x4 on the back of their cars because these terms were associated with mud-ploughing and rock-crawling offroaders. Clouds of diesel smoke, ladder chassis and leaf springs didn't really fit the image of a sports car.
    So no, their is no difference. Apart from the fact that the term AWD could also be used on vehicles with more than four wheels.
    Simple fact of the matter is that on cars with an AWD system you often also have the chance to switch in 2WD mode, or in a lock mode which gives you the same effect as locking all the diffs in a drive train.
    In short: the term AWD or 4WD doesn't say anything about how the drivetrain works. The only difference is in the marketing of the car, not in how it works. There are more than two ways of delivering drive to all four wheels, and with every system you have multiple ways of controlling what it does. So educate yourself before you make a video which contains false information.

    • @yz249
      @yz249 4 роки тому

      It's not false information, your simply arguing semantics. Marketing or not, there are typical characteristics and differences between the two systems. The origins of the terms from advertising or whatever doesn't change that.
      Your arguing what theoretically the words should mean, not what they actually mean.

    • @green5260
      @green5260 4 місяці тому

      ​@@yz249nope! most 4wd and awd systems go by both names when placed on different cars, it's quite literally just badging

  • @GermanPerfectionist
    @GermanPerfectionist 7 років тому +31

    I always was like: Car has 4 wheels, so 4 wheels are ALL wheels, so 4WD = AWD...

    • @cany.5668
      @cany.5668 7 років тому +3

      The Stig's German Cousin and you were right all the time

    • @Paoktsisgat4
      @Paoktsisgat4 7 років тому +2

      what about our lovely reliant robin. 3wd = awd so by your logic awd = 3wd = 4wd so that means 3=4 and also cars have 3 wheels while robin has 4

    • @cany.5668
      @cany.5668 7 років тому +3

      If a reliant robin was 3wd it would be awd. Don't just take extraordinary cases to try make someone look dumb. A car with equal wheels driven and in total is an awd car. There's also a g63 6x6. And it's awd but not 4wd. You knew what I meant but you are just trying to be so smart. You can keep behaving like I said 3=4 and also 3=4=6 if you didn't know... There's a car called g63 (might be 65 or a regular g500, not sure but doesn't matter) 4x4^2. Fourbyfoursquare, couldn't get the two on top of the 4 on mobile device. You can have a discussion with yourself if that has 16 driven wheels as it's basically 4x16. Have a nice time

    • @Paoktsisgat4
      @Paoktsisgat4 7 років тому +3

      i actually just wanted to be funny but its the internet. people always trying to call you an idiot one or another way. i dont wanna make anyone look dumb but rather make something funny out of something someone wrote. stop taking everything you see as offensive.

    • @cany.5668
      @cany.5668 7 років тому +1

      angelgod 4​ if that's that then sorry mate. You know it's hard to express yourself online as communicaton is mostly based on the tone of your words. Hope I didn't annoy you

  • @unoman4165
    @unoman4165 7 років тому +9

    A pleasant little factual video there, cheers CT

  • @verzekeringsadviseur
    @verzekeringsadviseur 7 років тому +1

    thanks mate! that's finally cleared up! I knew there were differences, but you have explained quite nicely so I know now excactly what's what.

  • @eatpumkin090
    @eatpumkin090 7 років тому

    Quick, easy to understand and directly to the point. Good job.

  • @doctorno1516
    @doctorno1516 7 років тому +5

    Nice to see some Slovenian footage in an international video :D

  • @yemoma8687
    @yemoma8687 6 років тому +12

    I Kind Of Get It And At The Same Time I Don't......

  • @stylestealer
    @stylestealer 7 років тому

    That shot of the gtr was so nice man. Also the m2 burnout is always a nice clip

  • @AndrewSmart32
    @AndrewSmart32 7 років тому

    I've wanted to know this for so long.. thanky you guys for making this video!

  • @anndik8609
    @anndik8609 7 років тому +233

    Car throttle reply plsss

  • @kirilzangagolev3401
    @kirilzangagolev3401 7 років тому +47

    Car Throttle, I'm 3 months away from getting my very first own bmw e36 318is for my 18th birthday!!!

    • @Sal12538
      @Sal12538 7 років тому +6

      Kiril Zangagolev good luck with that! I'm a year away from my first car.

    • @Thundershark777
      @Thundershark777 7 років тому +16

      That's a very nice car for your first one, stay safe!

    • @arenh2049
      @arenh2049 7 років тому +9

      I bet u were expecting a reply from Car Throttle huh

    • @wulf7744
      @wulf7744 7 років тому

      Kiril Zangagolev same lol

    • @ItchyKneeSon
      @ItchyKneeSon 7 років тому +4

      That's quite a nice first car. Mine was a 10-year-old 1990 Audi 100 Quattro (AWD with locking diff.). Slow and heavy, but safe and optioned out. The Quattro system literally saved my life on a handful of occasions when I was young and inexperienced. One thing I highly recommend is to take some kind of sports driving classes to get an idea of handling a RWD car. If nothing else, try doing a little autocross or something to get an idea of the feel of your car's handling characteristics and the physical limits of your car. You'll certainly not regret it in the long run and you'll be a much better driver. Enjoy and be responsible!

  • @darphbobo4971
    @darphbobo4971 7 років тому

    Been living with my aging AWD xtype for 3+ years now, It's kept me safe from Skye to St Ives, loves snow and wet weather. Alas electrical problems abound in mid summer.

  • @ilibertywalkedmybaconct4445
    @ilibertywalkedmybaconct4445 7 років тому

    YOU SAVED MY LIFE ALEX
    Also been here from 32k subs and its amazing how much you guys grown :)

  • @caustic279
    @caustic279 7 років тому +10

    2:17 IT SAYS LJUBLJANA

  • @Toastmaster_5000
    @Toastmaster_5000 7 років тому +4

    Just to point something out: not all AWDs are symmetrical and full-time, and, not all 4WDs can be manually controlled.
    Usually, the easiest way to look at it is 4WD just about always involves a transfer case and locks the wheels. Meanwhile just about all AWD systems will not offer any form of manual intervention and will almost always allow the wheels to spin at varying speeds.

    •  7 років тому

      Peter Schmidt
      Absolutely bang on point!
      As one of my current Subarus and a past Landrover Defender will attest to!

    • @keesie75
      @keesie75 7 років тому

      My Audi 200 Quattro has diff locks...

    • @jameshannig8986
      @jameshannig8986 7 років тому +1

      Peter Schmidt I was gonna say. Because I am pretty sure that my Toyota Landcruiser only has 4WD high and low range

  • @cornjacknife
    @cornjacknife 6 років тому

    Love the channel for the video. For a long time I have been searching this

  • @TheDaltonmichaels
    @TheDaltonmichaels 7 років тому

    that last system described is what comes standard on alot of newer trucks at least for GM. MY truck has 2Hi - 4Hi auto which only engages front drive when the system senses slip - 4Hi - 4Lo ....Both front and rear diffs come with LSD differentials allowing different tire rotation speeds and still allow lockup when needed. The new 4wd systems are basically a better version of all wheel drive. i just assume its not in cars yet due size or weight or maybe its just a cost thing.

  • @4LitreJeeper
    @4LitreJeeper 7 років тому +5

    4wd is when you have low range center diff lock. It has nothing to do with front and rear differential lockers/limited slips.

  • @NLsmily
    @NLsmily 7 років тому +6

    nice

  • @ayden1245
    @ayden1245 7 років тому

    car throttle i didn't think i would ever say this but i learned something from one of your videos :)

  • @joshrowl5180
    @joshrowl5180 7 років тому

    To add to this, 4x4 or 4WD usually has a low range selection in the transfer case to further increase torque while off road. There are also some full time 4WD systems out there, like on the first gen Jeep Grand Cherokee. But most are part time systems.

  • @ralathr
    @ralathr 7 років тому +3

    AWD and 4WD are marketing terms and don't have precise engineering definitions. The video is correct in terms of what is generally meant by the terms but plenty of "4WD" vehicles (Looking at you Honda CRV) would be AWD by the definitions presented here. If you ask the actual engineers (look at SAE and other journal papers on the subject) you will find the engineers use the terms rather interchangeably.

  • @REVAMPtheindustry
    @REVAMPtheindustry 7 років тому +13

    Explains 4wd as if it's always a locked diff... Everytime I watch one of these videos, I feel bad for the people who don't know better

    • @MrPaukann
      @MrPaukann 6 років тому

      Revamptheindustry, no! 4wd means that power is transferred to 4 wheels. That's all it means so any {integer bigger or equal than 4}x4 drive train is 4wd.

    • @timfrolov7891
      @timfrolov7891 3 роки тому

      @@MrPaukann No ?
      I mean, this is the exact definition of AWD

    • @MrPaukann
      @MrPaukann 3 роки тому

      @@timfrolov7891, 6x4 truck is 4wd. 6x6 truck is awd. 4x4 is both

  • @beechface1
    @beechface1 7 років тому

    Hey Alex, just watched mishas video with you at the 24hr. Was surprised to see you on his vids! Looked like an awesome time :)

  • @FatRakoon
    @FatRakoon 7 років тому

    Sweet, I had often wondered if there was a difference to be honest.
    Great vid.

  • @fightclub7078
    @fightclub7078 7 років тому +10

    OMG Thanks CarThrottle as a 13 year old i was searching for the drifferences between AWD and 4WD cuz it was confusing for me :D Thanks again :D

    • @FURIArts
      @FURIArts 7 років тому +2

      why?
      its not like you are going to drive next year or smth...

    • @adembaysan1036
      @adembaysan1036 7 років тому +3

      FURIArts Well, you start from somewhere, don't you?

    • @fightclub7078
      @fightclub7078 7 років тому +4

      Actually it's for my self knowlege of cars , and when imma turn on 15 imma get my assisted driver license :D

    • @JsV95
      @JsV95 7 років тому

      Wat:DDDD

    • @aniket.h403
      @aniket.h403 7 років тому +1

      LeRedresseurDeTort Français ? 😇😇

  • @RAGNES7
    @RAGNES7 7 років тому +14

    *who else saw this video more than once?*

  • @MrMiner807
    @MrMiner807 6 років тому

    Another reason u don’t want to drive on tarmac in a 4x4 when the 4 wheel drive is on is sometimes in the case of my truck the front axle is geared differently to make the wheel spin slightly fast to help pull the truck

  • @roadymoto378
    @roadymoto378 7 років тому

    Very happy to see the clip from Slovenia at 2:25 :D

  • @RR-cg2rq
    @RR-cg2rq 7 років тому +3

    I was just searching through Google the differences in AWD, 4WD and 4x4 and then this video came out. Can you guys talk about 4x4 too?

    • @scottverge938
      @scottverge938 7 років тому +1

      4x4 and 4wd are the same thing.

    • @RR-cg2rq
      @RR-cg2rq 7 років тому

      Scott Verge Are they? Then how come they have different definitions on Wikipedia?

    • @theshun53
      @theshun53 7 років тому

      Don't worry about Wikipedia,they are the same thing

    • @gcolombelli
      @gcolombelli 7 років тому +2

      4WD or 4x4 usualy refers to part-time four wheel drive with a transfer case (front and rear shafts rotate at the same speed) while AWD usually refers to a full-time four wherl drive with a center diffrrential (front and rear shafts csn rotate at different speeds). Naming can be confusing as some manufacturers call it t-case even when it allows for differential action.
      Also worth noting is that it says nothing about everything else. A center differential may be open, but its usually limited-slip. Rear and front differentials may be either open, mechanical limited slip, ECU controlled limited slip, torsen or something else.
      The simplest offroad vehicles usually are 4WD (part time) where the rear axle is always engaged and the front must be manually engaged. Usually the rear diff is some kind of limited slip and the front is open. Also the front ones may have a "free wheel hub" to disconnect the wheels from the shafts, so your front diff won't turn when on-road.
      Obviously not all off road vehicles are built this way, you may find many variations even under tha same make/model, just look at the Land Rover Defender to have an idea of how much it can vary on the same model. Also, for some off roading applications people may want custom stuff, like manually operated fully locking differentials or some king of mechanical or electronic torque splitting differential.
      Also, be careful not to confuse diff locking with torque spliting. Having the front and rear shafts locked in a traditional t-case doesn't send equal torque to the shafts, it just forces them to rotate at the same speed. On a open diff the shaft/wheel with less traction/resistance gets more torque. If you had a AWD vehicle with all diffs fully open then putting a single wheel on a low traction surface like ice or mud would leave you stranded, all the torque going to that single wheel, spinning like crazy while the others don't move.

    • @gcolombelli
      @gcolombelli 7 років тому +3

      4WD are densigned to work as 2WD on high traction surfaces, if you use 4WD on dry roads you'll end up breaking the chain on your transfer case of something even worse than that. It's also not a good idea to drive with locked diffs, it's just something you engage when you're stuck and then disengage as soon as you can. There's a reason differentials exist, you'd have massive understeer, tire wear and broken transmission parts otherwise.
      AWD work OK on either surface, but may have limitations and/or wear out parts more quickly if you find yourself driving under tricky conditions too often, but it also doesn't let you do something stupid and break expensive stuff as easily.
      Note that it doesn't mean one is better than the other, they're just better suited to different things. You probably won't find many AWD mud boggers and rock crawlers, just like you won't see many 4WD rally cars.

  • @nitroman365
    @nitroman365 7 років тому +22

    There are a few things that weren't addressed. It's mostly correct. The missing information would be the "4WD" with the option to be AWD with center diffs. Also, technically, AWD and 4WD are indeed the same thing.

    • @cpufreak101
      @cpufreak101 7 років тому +4

      whilst technically they are the same thing in concept (transmitting power to all 4 wheels) they do have different technologies

    • @theshun53
      @theshun53 7 років тому +7

      I render your comment a waste of time for reading

    • @PreciselyTuned
      @PreciselyTuned 6 років тому +1

      What if you are in a Merc G63 6x6

    • @MrPaukann
      @MrPaukann 6 років тому

      Justin Noker, 4wd on a 4 wheeled vehicle is 4x4 awd, period. There is a proper definition of the term.

    • @daisykearby5535
      @daisykearby5535 6 років тому

      Aww and 4wd are not the same if u take a 4x4 mudding you have such a better chance bc all the wheels are locked on an awd the front pass and rear driver are locked together and the front driver and rear pass are locked together and spin together I know bc I've been stuck in my 98 forester multiple times and when the muss to thick only 2 wheels will spin instead of all 4 unlike a 4x4 when all 4 will spin when ur stuck

  • @sergetatarinov9440
    @sergetatarinov9440 7 років тому

    Thanks man this is so helpful because I don't know how to explain to people what the difference is

  • @ANasCarBoi
    @ANasCarBoi 7 років тому

    You are 90% right about 4 wheel drive. I own the same car as the one to the right in the thumbnail, however my Jeep has the more expensive packaging option for the transfer case which gives me 2wd (rwd), 4 Full Time (can be used on the road and off road and is basically power being sent to both front and rear diffs, albeit they are open diffs but power is sent to the front and rear diffs none the less), 4 Part Time (4wd strictly for off road and slippery conditions such as ice and sand, and what happens is the transfer case is locked and both the front and rear drive shafts spin at the same exact speed. If used on Tarmac it can cause wheel hope because all 4 wheels aren't turning at the same speed around a corner, so the inner wheel is trying to catch up to the speed of the outer wheels in both the front and rear, let this happen enough and you'll twist the drive shafts), and 4LO (the same as 4 Part Time but lowers the gearing so you can in theory take your foot off the throttle and let the car "creep" over rocks and such at low speeds like 3 mph but with torque being increased with the lower gearing), and N (as in neutral because he transfer case disconnect the drive shafts so if being towed being a motor home, for example, the driveshafts won't be spinning the transfer case and transmission due to the wheels spinning). Hope that helps.

  • @thedownshiftchannel
    @thedownshiftchannel 7 років тому +33

    It's a difficult choice to make but there is never really a final answer as such because opinion and environment come into it too much!

    • @SulCoCrazy
      @SulCoCrazy 6 років тому +2

      I love awd - stomping on it from a start to get in front of traffic means that the car just goes forward. No power is lost in wheelspin - the car just moves.

  • @Djhg2000
    @Djhg2000 7 років тому +23

    People probably think AWD and 4WD are different things because pretending AWD has some advanced meaning is an American marketing thing.
    Historically, in the rest of the world the only difference is 4WD specifically means 4 wheels are driven while AWD just means all of them are driven regardless of how many there are. You can throw whatever fancy systems at them you want but it doesn't change what the terms originally meant.

    • @cany.5668
      @cany.5668 7 років тому +3

      Djhg2000 this needs to be up up up. With their explanation it's possible to have a car with 4 driven and 4 total wheels and the car can still not have ALL its wheels driven

    • @cany.5668
      @cany.5668 7 років тому +2

      Djhg2000 maybe they are looking for the steering wheel to be driven

    • @Djhg2000
      @Djhg2000 7 років тому

      +Can Yoldaş "maybe they are looking for the steering wheel to be driven"
      i.imgur.com/rwZwZ9j.jpg
      Good one!

    • @FCFordLord
      @FCFordLord 7 років тому +1

      Djhg2000 You still aren't getting it. In the US, 4wd means it can be shifted in and out of 4wd. AWD means it is full time AWD, no selectors.

    • @cany.5668
      @cany.5668 7 років тому +3

      FCFordLord this is wrong. You are getting the golf r in the US too. It has no selectors but it still isn't all time all wheel drive. It's basically 2 wd most of the time and the driver has no real control of that. What do you say now? Is it 2 wd? Awd? 4wd? People who say awd and 4wd are not the same are either driving cars with more or less wheels, or they have no clue what they are talking about

  • @GodOfGamingBG
    @GodOfGamingBG 7 років тому +1

    as much as I love how much fun my E30 is on the snow, I will admit that those few moments when I'm stuck and can't go neither forwards nor backwards because I've stopped on a slippery spot are not so fun, so I am considering getting a GC8 for a second car

  • @microm4n
    @microm4n 7 років тому

    Wow I was literally wondering about this this week!

  • @timburton1080
    @timburton1080 7 років тому +4

    So much fail in this video, conflating centre and axle based differentials for a start. Just because you lock the centre diff doesn't mean the side to side diffs are locked.

    • @timfrolov7891
      @timfrolov7891 3 роки тому

      Yes, my brain stopped working after this, and my understanding of the difference between AWD and 4WD is lower than ever

  • @gerardojr.hurtado3179
    @gerardojr.hurtado3179 7 років тому +4

    Which company has the best AWD systems? like 50/50 at all times?

    • @saintlaurentduck9615
      @saintlaurentduck9615 7 років тому +3

      Gordo Villa all I know is audi invented the first awd system "quattro", but that may be a hard one

    • @gerardojr.hurtado3179
      @gerardojr.hurtado3179 7 років тому

      ignore that last sentence, just the first part

    • @Orfeas_christodoulou
      @Orfeas_christodoulou 7 років тому +5

      For me I'd say Nissan with the ATTESA ET-S.It's a rear biased AWD system with tons of cornering capability.Also a system with a 50/50 split is subaru's symmetrical AWD which is an awesome system in its own right

    • @d1sturb3d119
      @d1sturb3d119 7 років тому +9

      Currently it would be Nissan on the GTR, Mitsubishi on the Evo and Acura across the line up. Torque vectoring AWD with the ability to split torque at different levels.
      A 50/50 torque split is not a great system and can cause huge understeer. It's best to have a center diff that can vary torque accordingly. Audi does a 40:60 split which still gives it huge understeer, Acura does a 30:70 split so the cars and SUV's don't understeer like the Audi and Acura's also split torque left to right.
      Nissan's system can be varied from 10:90 all the way upto 50:50. So they feel like RWD cars but can save you when pushed. I believe Infinity's system does the same but I'm not sure how it vectors torque left to right.

    • @gerardojr.hurtado3179
      @gerardojr.hurtado3179 7 років тому

      vidurc Yea, that was stupid of me to ask about 50/50,
      Seems like Nissan only offers AWD on the GTR. Also, Infiniti is basically Nissan, I would assume they would use the same technology.
      Just wanted to know in which ranks do the current AWD systems go in.

  • @dre04mach
    @dre04mach 7 років тому

    locking diffs have no bearing on the 4x4 on dry tarmac issue - the issue is there's no clutch in the transfer case and thus the front tire that is getting powered is locked at the same rotational speed as the rear that is getting power. Thus, even with open diffs at each end, on dry tarmac in 4x4 you will encounter binding, because in a corner the rear doesn't follow completely in the path of the front and thus has to spin at different rates. locking diffs will affect each axle independently on dry tarmac making the binding even more evident.

  • @dances_withwolves
    @dances_withwolves 7 років тому

    FYI: Most factory 4wd's have a selectable 4wd mode with an additional "Center differential lock low range" - this does not lock the front and rear diffs. It only locks up the transfer case (centre diff) which matches both the front and rear drive shafts; speed & torque. To have true 4wd (unless your 4wd came with them eg: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon) you will most likely need selectable front and rear diff locks.

  • @egykilenckilenchet
    @egykilenckilenchet 7 років тому +3

    People don't know the difference so they just use both for the same thing. So it really doesn't matter at the end.

    • @lapamful
      @lapamful 7 років тому +2

      It does if you're in the middle of the Amazon jungle in an AWD vehicle stuck in the mud and don't understand why the car won't move anywhere :P

    • @egykilenckilenchet
      @egykilenckilenchet 7 років тому

      I already knew the difference before watching this video, but people still use both terms interchangeably in everyday life.

    • @gcolombelli
      @gcolombelli 7 років тому

      egykilenckilenchet It matters if you try to use 4WD on tarmac and end up with a broken chain on your transfer case. People who don't want to learn the difference are better off with either 2WD or AWD... 4WD makes it easy to shoot oneself in the foot.

  • @philipsterner77
    @philipsterner77 7 років тому +4

    i like cars

  • @ElJefeMeech
    @ElJefeMeech 7 років тому

    I thought it was the same thing, so I was quite surprised to see that it isn't.
    Cool video, thanks for the info.

  • @ilikedthisvideo3004
    @ilikedthisvideo3004 6 років тому

    Very informative and to the point! Great video!

  • @jeypi__
    @jeypi__ 7 років тому +3

    Rip Evo :(

    • @EngiNetion
      @EngiNetion 4 роки тому

      At least she died as a real car.

  • @Rayshanto2701
    @Rayshanto2701 7 років тому +3

    Look at the GT-R. It's brown.

    • @eaylhtwls68
      @eaylhtwls68 7 років тому +2

      nope it's orange

    • @clayton8or
      @clayton8or 7 років тому +4

      SUNSET ORRAAAANNNGEEEEE

    • @bigron9537
      @bigron9537 7 років тому +1

      Rayshanto2701TM GT-R's are for people who cant drive. Loaded with tech and no purity. Get an MX-5, 911 or Impreza. Or a 350Z. Or an Exige.

  • @hermannbose7347
    @hermannbose7347 7 років тому

    I know that Defender! 💪
    Fixed it several times. He loves our shop :D

  • @ethanfang939
    @ethanfang939 7 років тому

    A lot of the things Alex said about both drive systems are actually interchangeable, and in some cases, are actually the other way around. But for the most part, the general purpose of the systems are correct. Nice video.

  • @scottrc5776
    @scottrc5776 7 років тому +5

    The names mean pretty much the same thing.

  • @miguelaguilar7560
    @miguelaguilar7560 7 років тому

    Finally a video that makes explaining things to people easier

  • @TheRussianLondoner
    @TheRussianLondoner 6 років тому +1

    Awesome video. Thank you!!!
    How is AWD in long term servicing? (

  • @costantineyoussif6679
    @costantineyoussif6679 2 роки тому

    Very nice presentations , and straight to the point, I have an 08 Lexus GS 350 with 112mi I do get white puff smoke at start up for about 4-5 Sec 💨 after the car is warmed up, sometimes I see it , sometimes not , sometimes I see it when I accelerate sometime I don’t see it when I accelerate. What this it could be !!? Thanks

  • @GwnSerchan
    @GwnSerchan 7 років тому

    thank you i wasnalways wondering about the differences

  • @anzejp
    @anzejp 7 років тому +1

    Slovenian registred Golf R on CT, nice one!

  • @mediaisthevirus
    @mediaisthevirus 7 років тому

    im glad that you made this. i hate people who say its the same thing

  • @LotfiFederer
    @LotfiFederer 7 років тому

    Thanks for the precious explanations!!

  • @marianobruno7491
    @marianobruno7491 6 років тому

    Finally, after 10 videos one that explain it right :D

  • @denlog1177
    @denlog1177 7 років тому

    Many 4WD vehicles have slightly different gearing front vs. rear as well. They spin the front tires 1-2% faster then the rears for better off road performance and stability.

  • @josephpires7744
    @josephpires7744 7 років тому +1

    Could you guys make a video explaining hybrid systems in super/hyper cars?

  • @aoodi6
    @aoodi6 7 років тому

    Love this vids guys! Keep it up, please!!

  • @jake-the-neko5531
    @jake-the-neko5531 7 років тому

    I knew there was a difference between AWD and 4x4 but I didn't know what is was. This vid is perfect for that

  • @suzukiswift1577
    @suzukiswift1577 7 років тому +1

    All kinds of 4WD selections of the most cars:
    AWD (most)
    4X4 (most)
    Off-Road (extreem 4X4)
    4WD (most)
    XWD (SAAB)
    Xdrive (BMW)
    4-matic (benz)
    QUATTRO (Audi)
    All-Grip (Suzuki)
    non stop 4 wheel drive (special vehicles)
    High All Drive Speed (only the HUMMER maurauder)
    Triple Diff locks (idk)

  • @williamrayner738
    @williamrayner738 7 років тому

    this was really interesting. thanks

  • @TheStrikey3
    @TheStrikey3 7 років тому

    I didn't know this thanks for explaining

  • @casey360360
    @casey360360 7 років тому

    Can't forget old school 4wd subarus. Same symmetrical drivetrain setup as the AWD vehicles with a FWD, 4hi and 4lo option which locks the differentials.

  • @bhew7409
    @bhew7409 7 років тому

    Sick thanks I knew they wern't the same but not in which ways. Good work¬

  • @MardukUnderscoreNinetySix
    @MardukUnderscoreNinetySix 7 років тому

    I must say car throttles content is improving

  • @awesomehonda7384
    @awesomehonda7384 7 років тому

    Great vid. Had no idea!

  • @wozz3879
    @wozz3879 7 років тому

    Is a land rover a good example though, they can still corner perfectly well, diff lock on a defender locks the transfer box diff (centre diff) still only making it 2 wheel drive right? If you raise 2 diagonal wheels it'll be 2wd

  • @tadejcesnik94
    @tadejcesnik94 7 років тому

    You put a Volkswagen with Slovenian register plate in video. I feel so badass now

  • @lizardmonkeySYND
    @lizardmonkeySYND 6 років тому

    Can the awd be turned off in most or some vehicles? Because in the winter here in Maine when I go to a parking lot to drift/ do donuts I turn my 4wd and traction control off so that they don't interfere with what I'm doing, is it possible to do that same sorta thing with an awd vehicle?

  • @ak_7.3l30
    @ak_7.3l30 7 років тому

    4x4 trucks still have open diffs in the front so when you put it in 4 wheel drive it just sends power to the front diff which is usually open so you don't have any problems with skipping

  • @BoostAndRedline
    @BoostAndRedline 7 років тому

    Really enjoyed the video !! Thank you for putting it together really learned a lot! Please continue to be an inspiration as I launch a channel with similar content myself!!

  • @adnamamedia
    @adnamamedia 7 років тому

    Very informative video!

  • @sungsam4770
    @sungsam4770 5 років тому

    Thanks ,short and clear

  • @System-br1tx
    @System-br1tx 6 років тому

    I have a sportage model 2014 . It says awd on one side and 4wd on the other. So do i have both of those systems?

  • @irekin2
    @irekin2 7 років тому

    So what exactly are the differences. This video seemed to say they had independant spinning vs locked, but can be changed with a "box" so they become the same...

  • @meeshobatayeh3413
    @meeshobatayeh3413 6 років тому

    Thank you for your videos

  • @shaydenmansell849
    @shaydenmansell849 7 років тому

    1:00 DANG I need to watch that again!

  • @ketsis9717
    @ketsis9717 7 років тому

    some suvs like the mitsubishi pajero you can select AWD that even says on the car's manual especially for the road and safer in rain conditions but still you can put it on 2WD 4WD low range lock the rear diff so there are exceptions to the rule

  • @MidnightMechanic
    @MidnightMechanic 7 років тому

    Now which is more popular for tuners? There's a market following for both setups being used in all terrain situations, however the 4 wheel drive systems can be generally a lot simpler to work on. You can replace the gear ratios and differential carriers easily in something using a 10 bolt, 12 bolt, or Dana axle that's being used off road. Slap in locking, ratcheting, or torque sensing (helical cut friction driven gears) limited slip carriers that outright make clutch type limited slip diffs obsolete, and have less rotational resistance when operating on the highway in 2 wheel drive with a good highway gear ratio pushing the car. All wheel drive has computers, torque converters, and differential carriers that are forced to lock in 4 wheel lo, if it has locking at all. Unfortunately this setup is mostly used in sports and rally cars, so there's no way of selecting 2 wheel drive during highway use to save rotational stress and tire life. I'd like to see 4 wheel drive setups on sports cars on a video though, with the locking hubs and manual stickshift transfer case if possible.

  • @kennethbowden4129
    @kennethbowden4129 7 років тому

    Your description about why a 4x4 system under steers is off, the axle differentials are typically open on even a 4x4, but the center differential or transfer case is locked when in 4wd. On a turn the front axle has to travel a further distance than the rear axle which binds up the drive-train, and causes under steer. On some 4x4's you can additionally lock the axle differentials which will increase off road capability but will under steer like crazy. For me and many of my friends one of the distinctions between awd and 4wd is a selectable low range gear in the transfer case.

  • @GabrielVieira-nr4zb
    @GabrielVieira-nr4zb 7 років тому +1

    Hey ct team (Alex/Ethan) you should do a trip to Brazil to test a 4WD off-roader with the same engine on the ranger you have previously tested
    If you're curious to what it is it is a troller T4

  • @TheDeathcrash
    @TheDeathcrash 7 років тому

    There are part-time 4 wheel drive that allows you to drive in tarmac at 80 kms h(maximum), and by engaging part-time 4 wheel drive, you are not engaging front and rear diff lockers, so you can turn