[sugarwood]

I don't understand why they bother putting AWD on performance cars sold to the public to be driven on public roads.

I am not saying AWD is not real. When I autocrossed, I was sliding all over the place, at the limits of traction. Tires screaming. In that context, I can totally see how a modern AWD system would help you go faster since you can give more throttle to non slipping wheels. For performance applications, AWD was devised for getting additional power to the ground while having limited traction while sliding around at the limits (80s Quattro dirt rally car)

So, I have no idea how it's relevant to driving on public roads, unless you're roasting your tires around turns.....in which case, you'll be plowing into a child or SUV sooner, rather than later. I don't think you can even reach 50% of what a car can handle on even the twistiest backroads. If you’re not hearing your tires screaming, you’re not even close to the limits of traction. Who is driving like that on public roads?

What, you say? AWD is better in the snow? Well sure, AWD in snow seems a whole different conversation. Sure, it seems clearly superior for gaining initial traction, etc. But, are they marketing an AWD WRX or 911 as a good snow and rain car? (vs. performance on dry pavement)

Understeer? Who is really driving hard enough to be plowing your front wheels? That never happens to me..... maybe just drive like an old man...

What, you say? Put the power on in the middle of a wet curve and they will slip. That's where you need AWD. To that, I ask, who is actually driving aggressively in the rain?? Probably not anyone old enough to afford a car with AWD!