Tran_nsx
I think you got them confused, A "4 wheel drive", 4x4 or other names with 4 in them, run on vehicles like the toyota landcruiser, pickup trucks, and some suv's. This is a passive system, and they run all the wheels all the time (Unless they have a 2wd switcher like some Tahoe's do), witch is why they usually get less gas mileage than their 2wd counterparts; more moving parts = more friction.
Conversely an AWD system, is otherwise described as an Active system and negotiates power around the wheels on demand (either all 4 independantly or just F-B), usually they stay in FWD mode and the rear wheels kick in when needed, but there are exceptions.
I hope you dont take it personally, but I have an AWD and a 4 wheel drive car, and I know how they work. The AWD is a Crv, and the 4 wheel drive is a Landcruiser. I must say the Crv is really only a 2wd car becuase of the crappy open differential design, Id have payed a K or 2 more for a decent system; But then again, its not meant for the hardcore off roader, it is built on a car frame afterall.
P.S. I voted for Awd, even though rwd cars are fun, there no fun in the snow, and in kansas we get enough to matter. I know there are plenty of people who run rwd cars in the snow, But Id rather have an AWD car, even if it is heaver, a fwd car just cant put down the power (ceterus paribus).
Buzz1167
Jon N