Torsen Test Redux w/ 88 80q

[TM]

No-
The BMW system used in the 3 series xi and the X5 is all
open diff with the traction control and ABS systems used
to brake individual wheels for traction, like the Benz ML
and 4Matic (current 4Matic, not the W124 system).

I thought that the quattro IV system was pretty much the same,
with a torsen center and EDL to brake a slipping wheel.

Taka

-----Original Message-----
From: Brady Moffatt [mailto:bradym at sympatico.ca]
Sent: Tuesday, January 22, 2002 11:57 AM
To: TM
Cc: 'Quattro List'
Subject: Re: Torsen Test Redux w/ 88 80q


The Bimmer must have a limited slip diff in the front.

All the quattros that I know of have open front diffs. With everything
locked, that guarantees only 3 wheel drive.

Does this make sense?

Brady Moffatt
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
86 4ksq, 279,000km
72 Datsun 240Z, 180,000 miles

----- Original Message -----
From: "TM" <t44tq at mindspring.com>


> Because this topic came up, I thought I'd ask:
>
> The BMW test-drive thing that I went to this past fall had
> a demonstration of the "superiority" of the BMW AWD system.
>
> In this simulation, there was a ramp with rollers situated
> so that only one wheel has traction at any given time. The 330xi had
> no problem with this test, but the A4q didn't cut it.
>
> I know that the Gen. I quattros would have no problem- lock the center

> and rear diffs and it should be able to go right up, but what about
> the other cars? I thought that the EDL would kick in and allow it to
> climb.
>
> Not really a realistic test, but it shows the limitations of the AWD
> system- a G-Wagen w/ triple locking diffs would have no problem
> either.
>
> Taka
>