What is the Difference Between Four-Wheel Drive and Rear-Wheel Drive?

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Four-wheel drive (4WD) means power is delivered to all four wheels, while rear-wheel drive (RWD) means power is delivered only to the rear wheels. Differences: Nature: A 4WD vehicle has a drivetrain that allows all four wheels to receive power simultaneously through front and rear differentials. RWD vehicles rely solely on the rear wheels to provide driving force. Characteristics: Most trucks and some buses use a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. 4WD vehicles, as the name suggests, can deliver power to all four wheels. Advantages: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicles offer superior traction when starting, accelerating, or climbing on well-paved roads because the load on the drive wheels increases (i.e., the adhesion pressure on the drive wheels increases). 4WD vehicles generally have better engine displacement and can effectively reduce power loss.