What is Rear-Wheel Drive in Cars?

What Is Rear-Wheel Drive?

Almost every car today has four wheels—two at the front and two at the back. The vehicle's engine directs power to the front or back wheels, some or all four. This power propels the car to move forward. When this engine power is directed to the back wheels, it is considered a rear-wheel drivetrain system.

Power is transmitted to the rear axle during ignition through a prop shaft and driveshaft. The back wheels connected to the rear axle receive the power, delivering a force that results in the car's forward movement.

Enhanced traction and the weight shifted to the rear, while acceleration results in better control and stability.

Why Do People Like Rear-Wheel Drive?

Now, the rear-wheel drive is known to offer a dynamic driving experience and balanced handling while on the road. The drivetrain has become popular and loved by exceptionally high-performing sports cars.

Improved traction is one of the several benefits of a rear-wheel drive. A balanced distribution of weight enables easier manoeuvring of the vehicle.

What are the Challenges of Rear-Wheel Drive?

Rear wheel drive is known to encounter difficulty in rigid weather conditions. During monsoons and snow, the rear wheels could face loss of traction.

The rear-wheel drivetrain has a rather complex mechanism, which makes maintenance more expensive.

To incorporate the rear-wheel drive in the vehicle, the transmission tunnel must be in the cabin, which can limit space inside the car. This ultimately affects the practicality and design of some of the rear-wheel drive car models.

Which is Better – Front Wheel Drive or Rear Wheel Drive?

This is one of the most asked questions regarding rear and front wheel drive. Most drivers extoll the performance and handling features of rear-wheel-drive models. However, front-wheel drive models have a fan base, like the Honda Civic Type R!

Most often, for many Indian drivers, the front wheel drive is more predictable to handle, especially in poor weather conditions. It is also less expensive to purchase when compared to the rear-wheel-drive models. Another advantage of front wheel drive cars is the better cabin and cargo space.

It entirely depends on the driver and how he likes the vehicle's performance. Both front and rear-wheel drives have their personality when it comes to the overall functioning of the car.

What are the Popular RWD Cars in India?

• Mahindra Bolero
• Mahindra Scorpio
• Toyota Fortuner
• BMW 3 Series
• MG Gloster
• Maruti Eeco
• Mahindra Quanto
• Tata Altroz Racer
• Toyota Innova Crysta
• Toyota Supra
• Honda Civic
• Ford Mustang
• Ford Explorer
• MG Comet

Wrapping Up

It is known that most car models sold and bought in India are front wheel drive models. They are more affordable to manufacture and purchase. The rear wheel drive is often seen in SUVs, premium sedans, sports cars and utility vehicles. It provides enhanced control over the torque steer and the understeer. Another advantage of the rear-wheel drivetrain is that it distributes weight better and has a better towing capacity.