What is the difference between BorgWarner 4WD and quattro?
4 Answers
The differences between BorgWarner 4WD and quattro mainly lie in operation and performance. Here are the detailed explanations: 1. Different operations: The full-time four-wheel drive system is used to absorb the speed difference between the front and rear wheels, balancing the power distribution between the front and rear axles, allowing the vehicle to be driven by four wheels at any time. The BorgWarner four-wheel drive system is mainly divided into the on-demand 4WD TOD and the part-time 4WD ESOP. Both systems work in the form of a transfer case in conjunction with the transmission, where the transmission is responsible for gear shifting, and the transfer case is responsible for the distribution of front and rear power and the output of torque amplification. 2. Different performance: The full-time four-wheel drive system offers a good driving experience, smooth cornering, and strong off-road performance. In contrast, the BorgWarner four-wheel drive control program is more intelligent. By sensing the current driving state of the vehicle and cooperating with the front and rear EDL electronic differential functions, it more precisely controls the torque of each wheel, giving it excellent tracking ability whether in corners or on slippery roads.
As a car owner who frequently test drives various models, I believe there are significant technical differences between BorgWarner's all-wheel drive system and Audi's quattro. BorgWarner primarily relies on electronic clutches to monitor wheel slip in real-time, then distributes power through a control system—for example, sending more torque to the rear wheels during turns. This design is efficient, flexible, and cost-effective, which is why many mainstream brands like Ford or Jeep favor it. Audi quattro, however, is different. In its early days, it used a mechanical Torsen differential, which automatically distributed power purely through mechanical structures without electronic intervention, delivering ultra-stable and direct handling. Some newer versions now incorporate some electronic features, but the core remains mechanically driven, leaning more toward high performance and control, feeling more reliable on slippery roads. The key differences lie in the hardware and brand DNA: one is a universal solution with strong adaptability but perhaps less refinement; the other is Audi-exclusive, pursuing ultimate driving security. Personally, during rainy test drives, I distinctly felt quattro provided greater peace of mind.
Having driven for over a decade, mainly for urban commuting, the differences between BorgWarner's all-wheel drive and Audi's quattro are quite noticeable in daily use. I've experienced BorgWarner's system in a friend's SUV—it reacts quickly, adjusting wheel power swiftly when the road is slippery from light rain, helping the car stay stable, making it hassle-free and cost-effective. On the other hand, Audi's quattro, which I tried at a test-drive event, feels smoother and more natural during turns or acceleration, with incredibly even power distribution and no sudden jerks, thanks to Audi's strong brand philosophy and high-performance tuning. Simply put, BorgWarner is like a versatile tool—practical but broadly applicable, while quattro is more specialized and refined, embodying Audi's unique character, with greater attention to driving details. Though it comes at a higher cost, it's worth it.
Having worked in repair shops for a long time, I've seen many four-wheel drive issues. BorgWarner's modular four-wheel drive design is quite easy to fix, with common problems like blown fuses or sensor failures. Replacing new parts is quick and not expensive, making it suitable for budget-conscious car owners. Audi's quattro system is more complex, especially the Torsen differential part, where mechanical components are prone to wear and require professional skills for repairs, costing more. From a user's perspective, the former is flexible and economical, while the latter emphasizes performance but comes with more maintenance hassle.
