Quote:
Originally Posted by t walgamuth
If the car applying accelerative force is 2wd then when the powered wheels are applying the accelerative force the other two are going to be well below their cornering limit and in essence, coasting.
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This needs a bit of correction.
If a 2wd vehicle is in a turn, the other two might be close to or at the cornering limit........depending on the radius of the turn and the speed of the vehicle.
Your statement would be absolutely true if the vehicle is traveling in a straight line, but, seriously, that's not what the discussion is about.
Quote:
Originally Posted by t walgamuth
If all four wheels are receiving power then all will be equally (theoretically) loaded and each can approach the limit of adhesion at the same time, resulting in faster corner speeds.
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This also needs a bit of correction. Say four tires are equally loaded to the limits of traction while traveling in a straight line. If power is maintained and the front wheels are turned, you will absolutely lose control of the 4wd vehicle because the front tires instantly exceed the cornering limit. The "faster speed" that you anticipated has now taken you right off the road.
The only benefit of the 4wd vehicle can offer is faster speeds in a turn when operated
below the cornering limit of the front tires. Naturally, very few owners of such vehicle know where the limit lies.