[tha_new_guy]

All powertrains can be made to handle, really. There are great handling cars that are FWD, RWD, or AWD. I have owned an AWD and FWD vehicle.

For racing in a straight line from a stop, I'd say AWD due to the monster launches. RWD is also good, with FWD coming in last. The weight of the vehicle transfers to the non driving tires, causing traction issues.

For racing in a straight line from a roll, I would say FWD, as there are less drivetrain losses as the power is transferred to the wheels. A FWD car will beat a RWD car from a roll, if for instance both have 220 hp at the flywheel and equal gearing. AWD comes in last from a roll, as there are drivetrain losses putting power to the wheels. Ask YoungVR4 about that pesky Integra, hehe.

As for road racing and such, I think AWD and RWD are very close, with FWD at a distant 3rd. AWD and RWD just require different racing strategies on how you enter/exit corners.

For inclement weather, AWD owns and FWD is 2nd, with weight over the drive wheels. RWD is a close 3rd.

I hope that covered everything.