In this article, we will cover the 4matic and Quattro models to give you a good idea of what makes these cars stand out from the rest. But before that, let’s delve into some terminologies that are important in understanding these vehicles.
Drivetrain
What is drivetrain? Have you heard of this term? Well, it refers to the components in the vehicle which deliver electricity to the wheels.
All-wheel drive
All-wheel-drive, on the other hand, is where a rod connects both wheels at the front and the back of the car at the same time. In this way, the front and rear axles work together in propelling your vehicle forward. How does this help?
For one, driving on wet roads is often hard for most drivers owing to the loss of grip. And this leads to snarl-ups and accidents. But with this technology in place, the torque shifts to the axle with a hold on the road. As such, drivers can enjoy driving even when the weather conditions prove to be unfavorable.
Secondly, this feature helps drivers move up steep hills as well as muddy areas. It does so by generating electricity to any axle that can aid in propelling the car forward. When dealing with two-wheel power systems, this is not possible.
Thirdly, handling a car with this feature is quite easy as you can move forward and back with ease.
In both the 4matic and Quattro, this feature is present.
Difference between xDrive and Quattro
Both these cars have all-wheel-drive systems. However, they have some variations which make all the difference.
The xDrive is an electronic all-wheel-drive system that relies on a multi-plate clutch system to adjust torque distribution. This adjustment takes place every 0.1 seconds, based on the current driving conditions. The main difference between these cars is the axle balance.
The xDrive has a standard rear balance with 40% torque in the front and the rest in the rear. Changes take place when wheels start slipping. On the downside, the system can adjust even when the conditions are standard, and the driver has little say on the same. Is the BMW xDrive worth it? Yes, most definitely. Using the BMW xDrive in snow would surely give you a worthwhile experience.
The Audi Quattro, on the other hand, has equal torque distribution under stable driving conditions. As such, the driver gets to experience total control over the car and enjoys a balance. It uses a sensory system that adjusts the spinning rate of the wheels based on the road conditions. When one wheel starts slipping, the torque moves to an axle with a better grip.
Which car takes the day? While both systems will give you a unique driving experience, the Quattro wins regarding control. The xDrive has a good system, and it wins regarding energy delivery. However, you have little control as to the changes. In the case of the Quattro, you have more control over the mechanical shift, and it has a balance in the torque.
4Matic
This car’s system is quite similar to what you would find in the xDrive. The difference lies in the torque distribution, which is 45:55 in this case. As such, it has a bias in favor of the rear axle. The motion and grip sensing activities take place electronically, as is the case with the xDrive. Using the 4matic in snow should not be much of a hassle.
Quattro vs. 4motion
Are you stuck on deciding between these two systems? Well, they both have technical differences in their all-wheel-drive systems. Quattro operates on a Torsen system while the 4motion bases its operations on Haldex. However, they will both hold up in snowy conditions as expected.
Verdict
Whether it comes down to Quattro vs. 4matic vs. 4motion vs. xDrive, who wins? Well, the Quattro does. This system was the first in the market, and it paved the way for other manufacturers to follow. While they did an excellent job of coming up with similar systems, they could not keep up with the Quattro. Why is that?
First, the Quattro enjoys a legacy of durability, having been in the market for almost four decades. During this time, it has proven its prowess in holding up in unfavorable weather conditions.
Also, it has a ton of mechanical components that contribute to its durability. In the case of the xDrive and 4matic systems, this is not the case. These systems heavily rely on electronic means during their operations. As such, if the electronic interventions fail to work, failures in the systems are likely.
Also, with Audi, you have a choice of many models. The same does not hold with other manufacturers who restrict the all-wheel-drive systems to given models.
The choice of system will ultimately depend on you. The good thing is that whichever decision you make regarding these cars, you are bound to enjoy a smooth ride. All the best!
Add comment