By Joe Rich
Table of Contents
2WD Vs 4WD RC Car Which Is Best?
When it comes to RC cars, the debate between 2WD and 4WD has been raging for years. Some people say that 2WD is better because of its lower cost and durability. Others believe that 4WDs are better because they have more control, especially on rough terrain.
To all RC car fans out there, you must have heard of 2WD and 4WD, right? Now the question that comes to the minds of most of you is which one is better between 2WD and 4WD RC cars?
Just to explain a little bit on the difference between the two 2WD means that the car moves from drive to either the front or back wheels. With the other set of wheels having no drive at all. On the contrary with 4WD this means that the front and rear wheels move from drive at the same time.
So which one is best between 2WD vs 4WD? The truth of the matter is that both cars have pros and cons. Therefore a description of the pros and cons of each RC car will help you make a choice on the one to go for.
What are the advantages of 2WD RC cars?
It’s a simple car
Have you ever used a simple machine before? How did it feel like? Being a simple car is one of the advantages of a 2WD RC car.
The simplicity we are talking about here is from a mechanical point of view.
Thus, if you’re looking for a car that will not stress you when racing it, you can always consider this one. The idea of it being less complicated makes it a preferred choice for those who are just beginning to use RC cars.
If you’re new to RC car racing you don’t want to jump into anything to complicated or a car that will be hard for you to use. Simply put you will not feel overwhelmed when using the 2WD RC car.
Affordability
Another advantage of 2WD RC cars is that they are quite affordable. You won’t have to spend a lot of money when buying this particular type of model RC car.
Being able to get an affordable car that you can do the racing you want is always a plus for RC car enthusiasts. One of the reasons why this RC car comes out as a cheaper option is that it doesn’t have many components compared to 4WD.
It is a consequence that the more components a RC car has the more expensive it becomes. Essentially, the internal components of a 2WD are fewer, which allows manufacturers to reduce the final costs.
If one of the considerations you’re looking for in a RC car is affordability then the 2WD is the option you should go for.
Are 2wd RC cars faster than 4WD?
Is speed is one of the factors you consider when you’re thinking of a RC car? If your answer is yes, then a 2WD will offer you exactly what you need.
Most RC fans that are new to this field get excited when they use cars that have higher speed levels. That is why you’ll find most beginners using 2WD cars as opposed to 4WD. The thing with speed is that it increases the level of excitement in a driver, whether you are a beginner or an experienced one.
However, it’s important to note that the speed levels of this specific car are good if you’ll be using it on paved or tarmac surfaces. In the same vein, acceleration isn’t a problem for a 2WD.
If you’re on a straight line, you’ll be in a position to increase speed with much ease. Therefore, if you’re considering entering into a competition, the best choice for you is a 2WD RC car.
What are the disadvantages of 2WD RC Cars
Difficult To Manoeuvre Well
There are several disadvantages of 2WD cars you should know about. One of the things to point out here is that manoeuvring can be a challenge when using this car.
It’s because of this that you find many users crashing their cars when driving it for the first time. 2WD cars are really a first choice for the more experienced racer with a bit of car control knowledge.
Especially if you’re operating the car on a paved surface you must know how to control it well for you not to keep crashing your car into everything and everyone. If you’re a beginner, you have to be extremely careful as you race a 2WD since controlling it can be a challenge to you.
Not the Best Choice for Off-Road Surfaces
If you’ll be driving your RC car on an off-road terrain you should think of a 4WD instead.
It is important for you to know that this car does not have the grip levels to handle such roads.
For example if you’re driving on a surface with heavy snow or mud it will be difficult for a 2WD RC car to accelerate with ease.
It might get stuck along the way. Well while it’s possible for you to drive on these terrains chances are high that the car might develop some problems because it’s not designed for such tough conditions. So if you’re going to be racing on off-road surfaces, a 2WD is not the best option for you.
Beware of Poor Quality Models
It’s highly likely that when choosing your RC car you will find some for sale that are $50 or even less for that kind of money you are going to get a poor quality 2WD and 4WD RC car. These are basically toys not for the serious hobbyist.
The fact that 2WD cars are affordable can work to your disadvantage especially if you’re not aware of the best brands in the market. You should be very careful not to purchase a product that will break down after few weeks of usage.
The best thing to do is to do loads of research go manufactures websites read Amazon reviews and if you are lucky enough to have a hobby shop nearby pop in and have chat with them.
What are the advantages of 4WD RC Cars
Good for Beginners
One of the major advantages of 4WD RC cars is that they are a good option for beginners. If you’re just beginning in racing these cars you don’t have to worry about driving them properly because you’re able to take tight corners without much problem.
For this reason controlling these cars is quite easier compared to 2WD since 4WD models drive all wheels at the same time it’s easier to control them when racing.
Compatible with Any Terrain
Another major advantage associated with 4WD RC cars is that you can race them on different road surfaces.
Whether it is on a paved road or on an off-road terrain you will be able to race without too many issues. While a 2WD will be limited in terms of the surfaces you can race it on, a 4WD will do well with any road you expose it to.
If you’re thinking of buying just one RC car and you will be racing on different road types the best choice should be a 4WD.
Riding in Tight Spaces
If you’re racing in tight spaces or tight tracks the best choice is a 4WD. While 2WD cars have a higher speed and are good when racing in a straight line 4WD RC cars are good for tight spaces. This is because these cars don’t lose their grip at sharp corners.
What are the disadvantages of 4WD RC Cars
Expensive
A 4WD RC car is more expensive compared to a 2WD one. Even when you look at the cost of maintenance, you will realize that it’s more expensive to own a 4WD than it is for a 2WD.
Therefore if you are looking for an affordable RC car or on a tight budget this is not the option you should go for a 2WD will do just fine.
It’s Highly Likely to Break down More
The reason as to why a 4WD could have more break downs than a 2WD is because it has more components. The moving parts in this car are many thus increasing the possibility of breaking down.
2WD or 4WD RC Car Which Is Best??
Having gone through the pros and cons of a 2WD and 4WD RC car it is important to take note that different people have different needs and preferences when it comes to which RC car they want to use.
If it is for on track use only or will it be spending its life off road. Out of the two types of cars, you are in a position to choose the one that fits your needs the best.
For example, if you’re looking for an affordable car for smooth on track racing then the best option for you will be the 2WD.
Similarly, if you’re thinking of a RC car that will allow you to race in different terrains with a lot of ease, the best option for you is the 4WD.
Either of these types of RC cars will serve you well depending on the needs that you require. Both cars are good at what they do.
What differentiates each of them from the other are the specific needs that you would like to meet as you use them. In this respect, you should take time and establish what you would like to see and feel in your RC racing car so as to make the best decision.
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