can someone tell me the difference between awd and 4x4. me and my friend getting into a little "talk" about it.

i dont know if this information is correct but lets say the general awd system you can say that awd alllows for proper power distribution to any of the wheels that is losing traction.

for 4x4 its power through the pairs of the wheels right? i mean like... they'll give more power to the back of the two wheels if its losing traction as well as power to the front of the wheels if they need it right?

im confused...

-nam huynh

 

From: http://www.autowarrantybroker.com/glossary/index.asp

AWD: All four wheels are driven by the engine. AWD systems are superior to 4WD because they can be used under any road conditions. AWD systems use a center differential to allow the front and rear wheels to rotate at different speeds. AWD provides better traction than front or rear-wheel drive. also Term used to describe a full time four wheel drive system or any other car drive system that continuously delivers power to all four wheels. This system is found primarily on station wagon cars and SUVs not utilized for significant off road use.

4WD: A part time system that transfers engine power to all four wheels. 4WD systems usually lack a center differential that allows use in dry conditions. 4WD provides superior traction compared with front or rear-wheel drive.

 

thanks for the help!!