AWD vs RWD advantages/disadvantages
#16
Lexus Test Driver
As long as it's below 40f degrees. Summer tires, in which are what come on the RWD, perform best in wet conditions compared to all season tires that come on the AWD. So I'd say it's a wash there. But if the temp is below what the optimal rated temp is for the summer tire, the AWD would absolutely be superior in wet conditions.
In wet conditions, during the summer at least, my RWD could emergency brake more successfully than an AWD... Unless the AWD had summer tires lol but the RWD would still stop quicker because it weighs less and has larger brakes.
In wet conditions, during the summer at least, my RWD could emergency brake more successfully than an AWD... Unless the AWD had summer tires lol but the RWD would still stop quicker because it weighs less and has larger brakes.
Last edited by sick21; 04-16-15 at 10:49 AM.
#17
I don't think AWD gives you a better traction except when you are snow driving. Definitely not when it's raining or cornering. Also, if you noticed, most RWDs are faster than AWD of the same make and model and I believe it could be the case for the GS. AWD heavier = more gas, too.
I can go on and on, but I'll stop here.
#18
I've not had a RWD GS but I have had two RWD LS's. They were hilariously bad in the snow, but in any other situation they were 100% fine. I had those LS's on gravel roads and driving up hills with 2 foot tall grass in WV with 5 passengers, no problem.
The only reason I would get AWD is if I had rot drive it in the snow.
The only reason I would get AWD is if I had rot drive it in the snow.
#19
Lexus Test Driver
sgmstr said most of it. If you don't see snow for 3 consecutive months, get the RWD model. You'll know because the local dealers will sell mainly AWD or RWD depending on climate. For example, north east coast buyers can't find RWD cars without calling Florida or somewhere warm, and that's intentional.
AWD is another diff, a split drive shaft, extra mechanical complexity, extra parts, and extra weight. You also don't get the same suspension as the RWD thanks to clearance issues with the AWD system.
So yeah, if you drive in snow alot or DON'T own a winter beater, get AWD. Otherwise RWD is the way to go. Best compromise is FWD for snow, but then you're in ES territory.
AWD is another diff, a split drive shaft, extra mechanical complexity, extra parts, and extra weight. You also don't get the same suspension as the RWD thanks to clearance issues with the AWD system.
So yeah, if you drive in snow alot or DON'T own a winter beater, get AWD. Otherwise RWD is the way to go. Best compromise is FWD for snow, but then you're in ES territory.
#20
Lexus Fanatic
Why would you consider FWD the "best compromise" for snow? I'd much rather have rear biased AWD than GWD...
#22
I believe the AWD system will vary the power distribution from 50/50 to as much as 30/70 front to back. While certainly not the same as RWD it's still a great option for us in the snow belt. I drive winter and summer tires and find the performance of the car with summer sneakers to be terrific, dont miss my former RWD cars at all nor do I feel I am taking a big hit performace wise with AWD.
YMMV
JTMav
YMMV
JTMav
#23
Driver School Candidate
Join Date: Jan 2018
Location: Nebraska
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Drifting?
Drifting doesn't come into it for me. Although when I was young and had vettes and GTO'S I drove like an idiot. Enjoy your youth fellas.
#24
Lexus Fanatic
This thread is 6 years old lol
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