
AWD, FWD, or RWD—Which Wheel Drive Is Best? - MotorTrend
These acronyms refer to where the engine's drive power hits the road—via all wheels (AWD), the front wheels (FWD), or the rear wheels (RWD). The world's first car was front-wheel drive.
What RWD Means on a Car: Rear Wheel Drive Explained
Jul 13, 2025 · In an RWD car, engine power travels through the transmission and driveshaft to the rear axle, turning only the rear wheels to move the vehicle forward. The front wheels handle steering …
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD): How It Works, Pros and Cons, and Why ...
Jul 9, 2025 · In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Rear Wheel Drive. You’ll learn how it works, how it differs from other drivetrain layouts, and why it’s still the go-to setup …
FWD, RWD, AWD, 4WD: Drivetrains Explained & the 4 Types
Sep 6, 2025 · There are four main types of drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD), and Four-Wheel Drive (4WD). Each one works a little differently and …
AWD vs. 4WD and FWD vs. RWD: Drivetrain Differences Explained
Dec 23, 2025 · RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive): Power is only sent to the two rear wheels. AWD (All-Wheel Drive): Power is automatically shuffled between the front and rear wheels as needed.
Choosing the Best Drivetrain | Christian Brothers Automotive
May 23, 2025 · What Is a Drivetrain on a Car? A car's drivetrain is essential to its performance and handling. The system transfers power from the engine to the wheels. The type of drivetrain – FWD, …
FWD vs 4WD vs AWD vs RWD - A Drivetrain Guide
Your vehicle’s drivetrain works with the engine to deliver power to the wheels. The most common types of drivetrains are front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), four-wheel drive (4WD) and all …
What Are Rear-Wheel-Drive Cars? - Car and Driver
Feb 28, 2025 · Rear-wheel drive vehicles only send power from the engine or motor to the back wheels. This is distinct from front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive. Rear-drive configurations...
FWD, RWD, AWD, 4WD, 2WD Drivetrains - TireGrades
Jul 3, 2023 · Rear-Wheel Drive, lovingly known as RWD, is where the engine powers the back wheels of the vehicle. Unlike FWD where your car is pulled forward, in an RWD setup, your vehicle is pushed …
What's the Difference Between FWD, RWD, AWD and 4WD?
Rear wheel drive (RWD) means that engine power is delivered to the rear wheels which in turn push the car forward. The front wheels do not receive any power. Since the weight of a RWD vehicle is more …