The Difference Between FWD and RWD Car Drives, Let's Find Out!

FWD stands for Front Wheel Drive or more commonly known as front-wheel drive system. As is known in the world of four-wheeled vehicles, the wheel drive systems are divided into 5 types: AWD/4WD, FWD, RWD, Rear Engine RWD, and Mid Engine RWD.

Now, in this discussion, we will review the differences between FWD and RWD. Curious about what the differences are? Read more below!

Differences Between FWD and RWD Car Drives

Understanding the wheel drive system of a car is very important, especially for those who are about to buy a car.

So why is it necessary to understand this? Because the wheels are the components that distribute power from the engine to ensure good car maneuverability.

So what are the differences between FWD and RWD cars? Find the answers below:

1. FWD Drive System (Front Wheel Drive)

FWD cars (Front Wheel Drive) are cars that are powered by the front wheels, with power coming from the engine. In this process, it does not go through a differential, as it is directly channeled to the engine and transmission.

Here are some highlighted points of the FWD drive system:

• The FWD drive system is located on both front wheels of the car. Cars that use the FWD system and have a front engine are often referred to as Front Engine (FF). There are quite a few FWD cars in Indonesia, mostly MPV and SUV types that use this system. For example, cars like the All New Daihatsu Xenia, Daihatsu Ayla, Sirion, and Sigra.
• The cabin space for FWD cars is relatively spacious. It is very suitable to be used as a reference when buying a family car.
• The sound produced by FWD cars tends to be smooth. This is because these cars do not use a differential. The absence of a differential makes these cars powerful and efficient.
• The handling of FWD cars is considered very good even on slippery roads. This happens because the front wheels of FWD cars can pull the rear wheels. This comfort in handling is what makes FWD cars so popular as they are considered safe and anti-slip.
• The fuel consumption of FWD cars is more economical compared to RWD cars. This is because the engine power is directly transmitted to the front wheels.

Read Also: Front Wheel Drive vs Rear Wheel Drive Cars, Here Are the Advantages!

2. RWD Drive System (Rear Wheel Drive)

Next, the definition of RWD or Rear Wheel Drive is a rear wheel drive system powered by the engine.

In the RWD drive system, the highlighted points are as follows.

• The RWD drive system is located on both rear wheels of the car. This system can be combined with rear, mid, or front engines. Some cars in Indonesia that use the RWD system are Daihatsu Gran Max, Daihatsu Terios, and Daihatsu Luxio.
• The cabin space in RWD cars is more limited because there is a tunnel for the differential under the chassis.
• The sound of RWD cars is not as smooth as FWD cars.
• The handling of RWD cars can be said to be better than FWD cars. RWD cars are proven to be tough on all terrains. Especially when going up hills, these cars can climb very easily and powerfully. RWD cars are also considered more balanced compared to FWD. This happens because the position of the wheel drive and engine are separate. The separation of the engine and drive system creates a wider turning radius. This makes the car's maneuvering more enjoyable. However, this condition can also lead to oversteer.
• In terms of fuel consumption, RWD cars are considered quite wasteful. This is because the power transmitted from the engine to the wheels is not very large.

So, from the explanation above, what are the advantages of FWD? The advantage of FWD is that it is lighter, making fuel consumption in the car more economical.

Thus, the differences between the FWD and RWD car drive systems that you can know. If you still do not understand, you can ask directly at the nearest Daihatsu dealer. There you will get information about Daihatsu car specifications. So you can choose a car according to your needs. After reading the review above, are you more interested in using FWD or RWD cars?