Re: 328i vs. Jeep

[KWHines@aol.com]

Actually, the comparison was between the 328 (w/ TC), Jeep Grand Cherokee
(4WD), Lexus ES300 (w/o TC), and Volvo 850 Turbo (w/ TC).  From what I saw
the test was conducted on a flat wet surface and was primarily geared towards
stability, NOT traction.  The Jeep didn't do well b/c of its poor handling
characteristics.  The Volvo TC system is very basic and FWD is new to them
(once again following Audi's lead).  Who cares about the pretender.  WHERE
WAS THE AUDI?  

BMW's TC system is probably the best in the world, so it is no surprise that
it keeps the car under control with the driver flooring the accelerator (as
if anyone really drive like this in the slick stuff :) ).   It will cut all
power if needed and the car won't move.  That's fine on a flat surface, but
throw in some hills and you're toast.  The best example of this is the ad
Audi ran last year with a 90Q, 325 (w/ TC), and C280 (w/ TC).  They made a
hill very slick and put the cars at the bottom.  The BMW and Merc couldn't
even make it 5 feet.  The back of the cars simply slid sideways.  Needless to
say, the Quattro went straight up the hill w/o slipping once.  Quite a
demonstration!

Electronics can't overcome physics (though BMW, etc. would like you to
believe otherwise).  There was a good article in C&D about 2 years ago with
the best comparison of drivelines I have seen.  Basically, RWD w/ advanced TC
(BMW, Merc) = standard FWD (non-Audi).  FWD w/ TC is better.  AWD (they used
a Subaru) is the best.  Surprise, surprise!

Hope this sheds some light.

- Kennon

1990 Coupe Q