Rear-wheel versus front-wheel drive

Traditionally, most cars use a two-wheel-drive system with the driving package located in the front of the vehicle. This model is known as forward-wheel drive, mainly because the wheels driven by the engine are those in front of the car. Since the weight of the engine and transmission are directly over the driven wheels, front-wheel drive improves fuel economy and provides better traction, which makes them more popular in the market.

However, certain vehicles use a rear-wheel-drive system, in which a driveshaft uses the power from the engine to drive the rear wheels. Such system offers a better weight distribution, improved balance and increased initial acceleration. However, the front engine/rear differential also leads to reduced traction and increased difficulties in maneuvering the vehicle in slippery conditions.

Driving in wintery conditions

Winter low temperatures and extreme weather conditions affect the performance of a vehicle. Roads become more slippery and dangerous due to snow, ice, slush and mud, which make driving a rear-wheel drive vehicle more challenging. Compared to a forward-wheel drive, where the weight of the vehicle falls mainly over the front wheels, in a rear-wheel drive the weight is equally distributed between front and back wheels. Thus, during acceleration in slippery conditions, traction in the front wheels is reduced. This leads to oversteering, drifting or skidding on the road, and reduces the overall vehicle control on such conditions.

Improving the performance of a rear-wheel drive vehicle in the winter

There are several tips and tricks that can help you drive safely and efficiently a rear-wheel drive car in the winter. Generally, slow acceleration can help avoid drifting. Also, adding weight to the rear end of your car, will improve traction when accelerating in slippery conditions. This is the simplest and least costly solution, and it can be achieved by adding weight to the trunk of your car. Also, using winter tires adds traction, and enhances the performance of your vehicle in challenging road conditions. You can read more about the added benefits of winter tires here.