Re: Quattro III vs. IV

[Debra Snell <snell@netshel.net>]

John wrote,
>
>i don't quite think so...  the current setup has a Torsen center diff, which
>doesn't lock or unlock, but dynamically distributes torque (Torsen = TORque
>SENsing).  then the front and rear axles are controlled via the ABS, using the
>brakes to slow down the slipping wheel, so they have open diffs - no real
>locking - and Audi calls this EDL (Electronic Differential Lock)...  you are
>right, there are definitely no switches anymore though.
>
>my understanding: the last cars before this (late 100/200/80/90, early A6) had
>open diff in front, Torsen centers, and auto locking rears.  then before that
>(earlier 100/200/80/90) you had open diff in front, Torsen center, manually
>locking rear, and before that (5k/4k/urq) open front, manual locking center
>and rear.
>

So which system is better? Not having driven my car in snow yet, I'm
thinking I would feel more secure if *I* had control over the
differentials. It's the robot thing, I guess, and my need for control...
Debra