Re: Driving on snow / quattro system

[William Murin <murinw@cs.uwp.edu>]

You have confirmed something that my own experience has led me to 
believe:  the q's real advantage is in/on dry and wet, not necessarily 
snow/ice.  I have noticed for a long time that when the roads are wet the 
q just digs in and holds on for dear life.  High speed motoring and 
handling are really enhanced on wet roads.

As for snow/ice, the q system might almost be a disadvantage in that it 
provides an opportunity for overconfidence.  Remember, even with ABS, 4 
wheel discs, upgraded brakes we cannot necessarily stop better than 
lesser cars on snow/ice.  I remember a R&T or C&D story a few years ago 
when they were testing (or had for long term test) a 200TQ and they were 
raving about the wonderfulness of the car.  Story ended when the TQ 
crested a hill at obscene speeds hit some black ice and proceeded to 
total itself.  I remember on any number of occasions having my q in to 
the dealer for some service and seeing a disproportionately large number 
of qs up on the rack.  Why--too many guys with too much testosterone 
driving beyond the limits of good sense and the q's ability of save our 
butts.  Remember, it is a q, not a dorF 4X4 with big tires.


Bill Murin