What is best for winter driving?

Several years ago, most cars were rear wheel drive. Most adult drivers learned on rear wheel drive vehicles. Then, in the early 80's, front wheel drive vehicles became very popular. Approximately 75% of new vehicles built at that time were front wheel drive. They have become very popular for two primary reasons. The first is cost; they are cheaper to build than rear wheel drive cars. The second reason is the advantage of front wheel drive while driving in winter (slick road) conditions.

Let's talk about the basics first. The "drive" wheels are the wheels that receive the power from the engine and either push or pull the vehicle. In the case of four wheel or all wheel drive, power is transferred to all four wheels.

Wheels, or more accurately the tires' contact patch, are responsible for the following tasks: accelerating, braking, and turning. So let's look at which wheels are responsible for various tasks.

Front Wheel Drive Front Wheels: Drive, Turn, Break
Rear Wheels: Brake