QuestionI will be buying a new car within the next year and would like something that will provide control and safety during New England winters. I live in an area that is hilly and rural, and the roads aren't treated as thoroughly or as quickly as they are in other areas. I am wondering about the basic differences in AWD and Traction Control, and in what scenarios they work the best.
AnswerJulie.. Let me start by defining each:
AWD is a system that drives all four wheels, according to how the vehicle is being used. AWD uses electronic differentials and other parts, to sense how much power each wheel needs, and puts the power to that.. The system is very handy on icy roads as all wheels are used to maximize grip.
Traction Control is just as it sounds.. it electronically controls how much traction you are getting. In other words... if you have traction control on - and the left rear tire starts to spin - power is diverted from that wheel to stop the spin. This keeps you from sliding out... most the time...
Most AWD's feature a form of traction control that work with the computer system to properly put the power. (that said, it depends on the AWD... some are more advanced than others) - For example... during normal driving some AWD's will have equal power to both front and rear... but more advanced systems will place 70-90% of the power to the rear and almost no power to the front. This improves fuel consumption ... and when turns or slick surfaces are sensed - the power distribution changes accordingly.
When it comes to safety on icy roads... I would go with an AWD if it were the same price as a front-or-rear wheel drive. Even with traction control - front or rear wheel drives can slide out... and spin... this is less likely on an AWD or 4x4.. if money is a big factor - a Font wheel drive with traction control can be pretty safe - and it will be cheaper to own. AWD's have more moving parts because they power both front and rear wheels - this causes lower fuel mileage, and more things can break.
AWD is a great system if safety is a big concern... The added traction improves handling and if you need to traverse a snowy back road - it will be less likely to end up stuck...
The Front - or - Rear wheel drive with traction control would be best if fuel mileage is a huge deal... repair costs are of grave concern.. or if it's a sports car... generally Rear wheel drive is ideal for performance (some AWD systems are also ideal for performance)... but when it comes to slick roads.. FWD (front wheel drive) will be your best bet of the two.. as the rear end will not be as likely to lose traction due to the front wheels having the weight of the engine keeping them planted.
I hope this helps answer your questions.. feel free to ask again else if i missed anything.
