SUV vs Quattro on ice

[Robert King <rking@earthlink.net>]

Okay... this is my junior engineering analysis of a SUV vs Quattro on ice.

I agree that the Quattro is more surefooted on the ice than a SUV.  I have a
1988 Audi 80 Quattro and a 1995 Isuzu Rodeo.  I'd much rather drive the
Quattro in snow and ice.

Imagine the SUV as being a long pole standing upright with a weight at the
top. As you corner, all this weight (mass) is trying to topple over, thus
forcing the suspension to cope and unloading the inside wheels and loading
the outside wheels with the weight transfer.  Imagine the Audi as being a
pole only one-third as tall and with less weight.  The comparative weight
transfer is less and the suspension response is significantly better.  (For
better illustration, imagine these poles as levers and the bottom of the
pole is held by a 5 lb. bag of sand.  Which pole will move the bag of sand
easier?  Of course, the longer pole... or the SUV)

So... that's why I love the Quattro for snow, ice and light-duty dirt roads.
I love the Isuzu for the more challenging dirt road excursions (which
require more ground clearance).  I wouldn't think of driving the Isuzu on
ice if I didn't have to!

Bob King
1988 Audi 80 Quattro
1995.5 Isuzu Rodeo LS
1984 Ford Mustang SVO