Why 4-matic???
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
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From: Vancouver Island, B.C. Canada
2005 smart cabrio; 2008 Mercedes-Benz B 200
Simple physics
Four wheels can transmit more drive to the road than two can, under any conditions - the two extra drive wheels double the friction coefficient that can be exploited for acceleration.
No fancy electronics can make up for the halving of drive friction that a 2WD car suffers in comparison to a 4WD.
No fancy electronics can make up for the halving of drive friction that a 2WD car suffers in comparison to a 4WD.
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2001
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ML
Yes, simple physics.
I agree to your point on traction sharing. I just fail to understand why go to such lengths on a sedan with traction control when in most cases, you'll not be dragstripping in snow. Traction control alone provides sufficient traction to tackle virtually any road condition - minus four wheeling, ofcourse.
MBWorld Fanatic!
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From: Earth
GLB 250 4matic
well, even w/ esp, if the rear drive wheels can't find grip, you're not going to move. w/ all wheel drive, if one wheel has grip, you'll move - hopefully to where the other wheels will help. i got winter tires, but i live in steep hills and i'm not looking forward to RWD.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2001
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'93 300E 4MATIC
If you spent a few winters in the Province of Quebec you would'nt need to ask this question. The 4-Matic option makes a considerable difference just to get you going at a street corner and dramatically enhances the stability of the vehicle while cruising on a snowy or icy highway. I own a 4-Matic and my next car will be a 4-Matic.
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