Are 4WDs Heavier Than 2WDs?

In a basic 4WD vehicle, power goes from the transmission to a transfer case where it is divided between the front and rear axles. In old school 4WDs, that’s all there was to it. It wasn’t a bad system, except for one big flaw. Because the transfer case sends equal power to every wheel, manoeuvring in a traditional 4WD could be difficult. For

The additional friction in the drivetrains of 4WD vehicles decreases fuel efficiency as well. In more modern vehicles, this difference is fairly minor – advanced synthetic lubricants in the transfer case and other components have gone a long way to minimising friction.

Typical all terrain 4WD vehicles are generally larger and therefore heavier than a standard 2WD sedan. But even a car with a ‘standard’ body and 4WD capability will be heavier. This is due to the weight of additional components required to make a vehicle 4WD capable, such as the transfer case and differential lock. Additional weight in any