People have dynoed AWD dsms in FWD mode, and the loss is only 5% more going to AWD. ITs not as big as people think. And for the 1,343,234 time, I'll mention that the AWD is geared lower to compensate. The FWD may get faster in the "top speed run," but the only way to win at the 1320 is with traction. How do you think I used to beat Vipers with a little 16g? 12.0 at 114 beats 12.3 at 120.
Wrong Wheel Drive will be even worse than this RWD example. My buddies FWD 1g trapped the same 107 mph I used to get on the 14b (109 best), but I would run 12.6s to his mid 13s. 1320 feet is very short. You better get a lot done in the first 60 feet if you want to compete. FWD is not the answer.
turboawdgsx said it right. I destroy powerful cars in street races by the end of 2nd gear. Why? 2nd gear goes to 60 mph, and it takes me less than 4 seconds to get there. I'll say it again. Traction. And now having 400 whp on pump gas just makes it all the more fun. 400 whp on a FWD equals tire smoke
Sorry for the rant..