Difference Between 4-Wheel Drive & All Wheel Drive
by Richard Rowe![itstillruns article image](http://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/877x500/cpi.studiod.com/www_ehow_com/photos.demandstudios.com/getty/article/88/239/86535678_XS.jpg 877w)
Though similar in principle, the intent of All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) vehicles are very different. One is used for enhancing traction in all situations, while the other is intended specifically for off-road performance.
History
The first four-wheel systems were used on electric cars in the late 1800s, and AWD was first used by Audi in the late 1970s for rally racing.
4WD Purpose
![itstillruns article image](http://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/877x500/cpi.studiod.com/www_ehow_com/photos.demandstudios.com/getty/article/146/74/76801104_XS.jpg 877w)
AWD is a type of 4WD system, and like traditional 4WD, is used to distribute power among all four of a vehicle's wheels for traction.
Difference
![itstillruns article image](http://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/877x500/cpi.studiod.com/www_ehow_com/photos.demandstudios.com/getty/article/244/232/200313908-001_XS.jpg 877w)
Traditional 4WD systems use a transfer case that completely locks the front and rear axles together for better off-road traction. AWD uses a center differential similar to those found in the axles to allow the axles to turn at different rates.
4WD Advantages
![itstillruns article image](http://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/877x500/cpi.studiod.com/www_ehow_com/photos.demandstudios.com/getty/article/88/54/200117764-001_XS.jpg 877w)
Because the axles are locked together, 4WD systems are better for hard-core off roading, rock-climbing and fording mud and water.
AWD Advantages
![itstillruns article image](http://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/877x500/cpi.studiod.com/www_ehow_com/photos.demandstudios.com/getty/article/178/111/200299900-001_XS.jpg 877w)
AWD systems are more geared for on-road handling, and can allow infinite variation of power split between front and rear axles. This allows an AWD car to have the stability of a front-drive car, with the cornering ability of a rear-drive one.
References
Writer Bio
Richard Rowe has been writing professionally since 2007, specializing in automotive topics. He has worked as a tractor-trailer driver and mechanic, a rigger at a fire engine factory and as a race-car driver and builder. Rowe studied engineering, philosophy and American literature at Central Florida Community College.