FWD: definition, characteristics and principle of operation

FWD is the generic term for front wheel drive. It was first installed in the Alvis Roadster in 1928. It became widespread in the 1960s and 1970s. Today it is mainly used in mid-range and compact cars.

How front-wheel drive works

The key components of the drivetrain in front-wheel drive Cars are:

  • the gearbox: it is connected to the engine flywheel via the clutch or hydraulic torque converter. It transmits the torque from the engine to the final drive. It changes the transmission ratio and thus helps to set the torque.
  • the final drive: This changes the torque coming from the transmission and forwards it to the differential.
  • the wheel differential: This distributes the power between the two front wheels. In many cases it is electronically locked and can be integrated into the transmission housing.
  • the axle shafts: These transfer the torque from the differential to the wheels.

Types and characteristics of front-wheel drive

Engine location Front wheel drive layout Advantages Disadvantages Front-wheel drive vehicles
Longitudinally in front of the axle Engine, final drive and gearbox are aligned one behind the other
  • High load on the drive wheels, resulting in traction and road holding improved, especially on slippery surfaces.
  • Increased passive safety through an enlarged crumple zone
  • High resistance of the steering wheel
  • Understeer
  • Low maneuverability in the Off-road
  • Brake force distribution is not optimal.
 Audi A4 B9, 80 В1, В2, 200 С2, 100 С2;   Volkswagen Passat B2, Jetta Mk2;
Renault 12, 18;
Alfa Romeo Arna
Longitudinally behind the axle
  • Good off-road maneuverability thanks to a short front overhang
  • The long wheelbase ensures a particularly smooth ride.
  • Insufficient load on the front of the vehicle, which in turn negatively affects traction characteristics.
  • Limited interior space
  • Low efficiency of the engine cooling system
 Citroën DS;
Renault 4, 5
Longitudinally above the axle The engine is installed above the gearbox or on the side < ul>

  • Good view from the driver's seat
  • Optimal weight distribution
    		•
    • Reduced engine efficiency
    • Complicated design of the drive
    		 Toyota Tercel L10;
    Cadillac El Dorado;
    Saab 99;
    Oldsmobile Toronado
    Transversely in front of the axle Engine, final drive and transmission are aligned one behind the other
    • Compact layout
    • Simple design of the engine
    • Uneven wear of the axle shafts
    • Tension pulling
    		 Volkswagen Caddy SAB, SAA, Bora 1J6, Golf BA5, BV5;
    Opel Astra J, K;
    Škoda Fabia 545
    Across the axis
    • The gearbox shares a common housing with the engine, which means space under the hood saves.
    • Complicated design of the gearbox, which makes repairs difficult.
    		 Peugeot 104, 204, 304, 205;
    Citroën Visa Super;
    Rover Mini