Quote:
|
Originally Posted by LeslieRC
Those of you who believe that AWD cars are designed primarily for driving conditions that are less than optimal are greatly misinformed about this marvel of automotive engineering. Don't confuse AWD with off-road, 4-wheel drive systems. AWD systems simultaneously and continuously "sense" road conditions under each of the four wheels and apply proportionate power as appropriate. In addition to sure-footedness on slippery roads, AWD generally improves/enhances handling and performance. That's why Audi Quattros were banned from racing circuits in the late `80s (RWD vehiles could not touch them), and why Porsche and Lamborgini now produce vehicles that feature AWD. Indeed, it's because the `06 GS300 features AWD that I'm attracted to what strikes me as an otherwise soul-less automobile.
|
Well I agree with the Audis whooping butt in racing. But today, there are other reasons for AWD.
1. Its now cheaper to make. So more car makers see it as viable to offer it.
2. Its catchy marketing. AWD="safe" to peoples minds.
3. it was an untapped market. Outside Audi/Suburu, most car makers really didn't offer it. So instead of having to leave to those brands, you can now stay in your brand (loyalists) if you want AWD.
4. Remember, most people with AWD don't go racing. And even Audi could not transfer racing success into sales success.
As for exotics, well I disagree. You will notice the magazines favorites sports cars are all RWD. AWD just cannot match the fun of a RWD car. Another reason is, the exotics have so much Horsepower, that without AWD, unless you are a race car driver, the car would be useless. AWD makes these exotics safer to drive and able to drive, so the masses (lmao) can buy them.
For instance the RWD only GT3 is the Porsche favorite to the 911 Turbo or even the GT2 (rwd only). Mags state the GT2 is really crazy to drive since they took all the "save me" gadgets out (trac control, AWD etc) and it has more power. Reading about the incredible power of the SL 55s and 65s, they simply spin the wheels out just tapping the accelerator. Too much power for the chassis.
Most mags say, the 911 Turbo (which has AWD) is the most useable exotic car today. The AWD really made is useable to drive daily.