In Grand Theft Auto 4, the way a car's drivetrain and engine are set up can have a drastic effect on occasions such as police chases and enemy gang wars (escaping, for example). This section will break down the different drivetrains along with the cars so you don't need to.
Front Wheel Drive
Front wheel drive (FWD) is when a car's engine power is channeled to the front wheels. FWD cars cost a lot less than other drivetrain types because of less moving parts. There are only a handful of FWD cars in GTA IV. In addition, FWD cars tend to have understeer.
Rear Wheel Drive
Rear wheel drive (RWD) is when a car's engine power is sent to the rear wheels. RWD cars tend to be more expensive because they tend to have higher horsepower and more moving parts. RWD setups are used in drifting, oval racing, and drag racing. There are a lot of RWD cars in GTA IV.
Four Wheel Drive
Four wheel drive (4WD) is when the engine power is transferred to all 4 wheels of a car. Acceleration is usually great but sometimes less than FWD cars due to more weight. Still, it provides great acceleration, great offroad capabilities, and the ability to climb rocks, walls, etc. GTA IV provides a decent amount of 4WD cars. Note that a few 4WD cars may be unevenly distributed (e.g. 30% front, 70% rear) . This will affect acceleration, handling and drifting capabilities. AWD is the term to describe even distribution to all the wheels.
- Comet (20% front 80% rear)
- Infernus (20% front 80% rear)
- Sultan (40% front 60% rear)
- Sultan RS (30% front 70% rear)
- Vincent (40% front 60% rear)