Can I live without Quattro, or will I hate it?
01-26-2006, 01:13 PM
#14
AudiWorld Super User
The way I look at Quattro vs. FWD vs. RWD..
FWD - commuter cars only (should be).
RWD - better, but you're still only half-way there.
Quattro - the way it should be no matter in rain, shine or snow (w/ the right tires).
Before I could afford an Audi, I was only dealing w/ FWD cars and got away w/ it, but never felt as confident driving in heavy rain (no awd, no traction control...nothing). Now, that I've owned 3 Audis in the past 5+ yrs., I'll always keep at least one AWD car in the family (in my case, an S4). I just feel a lot safer on the road this way w/ more traction and control of my car.
That's just how I feel. But it's all up to you. The only advantage that FWD has over AWD is fuel efficiency. But to me, safety and control is better than gaining a couple of miles more per gallon.
RWD - better, but you're still only half-way there.
Quattro - the way it should be no matter in rain, shine or snow (w/ the right tires).
Before I could afford an Audi, I was only dealing w/ FWD cars and got away w/ it, but never felt as confident driving in heavy rain (no awd, no traction control...nothing). Now, that I've owned 3 Audis in the past 5+ yrs., I'll always keep at least one AWD car in the family (in my case, an S4). I just feel a lot safer on the road this way w/ more traction and control of my car.
That's just how I feel. But it's all up to you. The only advantage that FWD has over AWD is fuel efficiency. But to me, safety and control is better than gaining a couple of miles more per gallon.
01-26-2006, 01:23 PM
#15
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A simple clarification...AWD provides extra traction when you're on the accelerator.
The sense of security we have on the fwy for instance is due to our piggish weight! Our cars just feel stuck to the ground, but swerving left and right would be equal with a rwd car if you're not accelerating at the same time. Also, there's ESP that does wonders for those who don't think more than one step ahead...it does all the correction for you, making you feel like a pro ;-)
Also, the FWD cars you are probably referring to are light econo-boxes that simply SUCK. I drove a ford focus the other day, skidded like no other when I had to stop a short distance.
Their tires from the factory are horrid, they have crappy suspension systems that will allow you to lose control more easily, etc.
Yes, awd is GREAT, but most of the benefits people think they are getting aren't really there; marketing goes a long way!
Also, the FWD cars you are probably referring to are light econo-boxes that simply SUCK. I drove a ford focus the other day, skidded like no other when I had to stop a short distance.
Their tires from the factory are horrid, they have crappy suspension systems that will allow you to lose control more easily, etc.
Yes, awd is GREAT, but most of the benefits people think they are getting aren't really there; marketing goes a long way!
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