What does front-engine rear-wheel drive mean?
2 Answers
Front-engine rear-wheel drive means the engine is positioned at the front hood, and the rear wheels provide the driving power. The functions of front-engine rear-wheel drive are: enhancing acceleration capability from a standstill and ensuring balanced load distribution across all four wheels. The drive system refers to: the arrangement of the engine and the number and position of the driven wheels. Driven wheels are those that rotate through engine power to propel the vehicle forward, which may exhibit oversteering during turns and require electronic assistance. Drive systems include: 1. Front-engine rear-wheel drive; 2. Front-engine front-wheel drive; 3. Mid-engine rear-wheel drive; 4. Rear-engine rear-wheel drive; 5. Four-wheel drive.
Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR) refers to the layout where the engine is positioned at the front of the car and power is delivered to the rear wheels. With over 30 years of driving experience, I've driven many such vehicles, like older BMW models, which feel exceptionally stable when cornering. The front-engine, rear-wheel-drive setup allows for a more balanced weight distribution, preventing the body from feeling floaty at high speeds. This design also avoids the dual burden of steering and driving on the front wheels, resulting in quicker handling response—especially on rough roads or during sharp turns, where it maintains solid traction. However, there are downsides, such as rear-wheel slippage in snowy conditions, requiring careful throttle control to prevent fishtailing. For everyday use, it's quite practical, though maintenance costs may be slightly higher, but the driving experience is purer. Overall, it's a classic choice for those seeking driving pleasure and stability, offering a more engaging ride than front-wheel-drive cars.