Previously, Audi's all-wheel drive was fair. And now - solid electronics. But did it get any worse? We put it to the test with classic and contemporary Audi models at the big Quattro Day.
Three classic Audi models lined up at the entrance to the auto center, which were equipped with the proprietary Quattro all-wheel drive system. Each of them is a desirable object of ownership for any fan of the brand.
Audi Quattro Coupe. The heir to the legendary Quattro, which allowed Audi to finally gain a foothold in the premium car segment. This example is equipped with a 2.6-liter petrol engine, second generation quattro all-wheel drive transmission with Thorsen differential. The owner has kept the car in excellent condition and uses it for daily commuting. The motor has a soft, smooth traction, but the handling is specific. Like its predecessor, the Audi Coupe Quattro has a lot of front axle slip when cornering.
A rarity in our area is the Audi V8 all-wheel drive executive sedan. It was produced both with an “automatic” and with an honest “mechanics”, which is not quite usual for this class. In each version, the all-wheel drive system had slight differences. Interestingly, the Audi V8 is also the first executive sedan to compete in circuit racing and win the DTM title in 1990-92.
Leather, a full-fledged climate control unit, excellent finishing materials. For the interior of the Audi V8 is still not ashamed. Is that on this instance there is a considerable mileage.
Permanent all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine today will not surprise anyone. And in the 80s of the last century, only Audi offered such models. The serial Audi 200 Turbo developed 200 “horses” and accelerated from standstill to 100 km / h in 7.5 seconds, which was considered an outstanding result. The owner of this car considered the power and dynamics insufficient. The engine is already “pumped up” to 400 horsepower, but this is not the end.
The Audi RS4 is a real racing monster in the guise of a civilian sedan. In the driver's cabin, cramped sports seats, a tight grip, and a grippy steering wheel await. Despite this, the RS4 is quite suitable for daily use, if you do not mind the huge fuel consumption. Under the hood is a 4.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower. Acceleration to “hundreds” takes only 4.8 seconds.
If earlier with Audi all-wheel drive everything was clear - the Torsen mechanical differential was installed everywhere - then on modern models three different types of all-wheel drive are used. And they are all still called the Quattro brand word.
On machines with a transverse engine, a Quattro permanent all-wheel drive based on a Haldex hydraulic multi-plate clutch is installed. True believers of the brand consider such Audis to be fake. Haldex can be found on Audi Q3, A3, TT.
The longitudinally-engined vehicles retain Quattro's trademark permanent all-wheel drive with a Torsen self-locking center differential. It is available for models Q7, A6, A5, A8.
On the new generation of the Audi Q5 and some modifications of the A5, a new type of Quattro ultra drive is installed. Similar to the Torsen, only one more multi-plate clutch is installed in the rear differential and opens one of the axle shafts. Designed to save fuel.
All-wheel drive crossovers Audi Q5 and Audi Q7 successfully coped with calibrated obstacles, despite the fact that they are equipped with different types of all-wheel drive. The main task of the pilot is not to be afraid to put pressure on the gas. In this case, the electronics successfully slows down those wheels that do not have grip on the surface, and transfers torque to other wheels. But still, the behavior of cars during the passage of the diagonal display and the "slippery" ramp was different.
After a series of races, we came to the conclusion that the all-wheel drive of the Audi Q7 works more efficiently. And at least faster. Where the Q5 spun its wheels helplessly for a long time before the electronics redistributed the torque, the Q7 was already confidently moving forward.
The advantage of branded all-wheel drive in turns was evaluated on the Audi A5 Sportback. On wet pavement, the Quattro performs particularly well. Acceleration, a short rearrangement, the passage of a smooth arc - the car copes with all this easily and with a little excitement. The most important feeling of the driver — everything is under control.
After comparing several generations of Audi all-wheel drive, we came to the conclusion that progress cannot be stopped. Fans of true four-wheel drive may anathematize the new models, but the fact is that in cooperation with modern electronic systems, even a Haldex multi-plate clutch can work wonders. But we still miss those real Audi Quattros.
Greetings, my regular subscribers and readers! As you already understood, the principle of operation of this technology and its features are on the agenda of the quattro all-wheel drive.
True Audi fans know that you can only experience the thrill of driving these German cars with quattro drive. Among the main advantages, they, of course, will name dynamics, controllability, maneuverability and will say many more laudatory words.
But is this really true or is it just another marketing myth? Let's figure it out.
Engineers from Ingolstadt introduced the drive called quattro back in 1980, and, of course, to this day it has been repeatedly modernized and transformed - there are about five major stages in its history.
Despite the inevitable technological progress, the basic chips of this technology from Audi have always remained unchanged - this is a permanent all-wheel drive system with a longitudinally mounted engine.
We emphasize once again - permanent all-wheel drive and longitudinal units. Due to the fact that the car, regardless of the situation, all four wheels are leading, it was possible to achieve unique stability on any road surface, high efficiency from engine braking and enviable handling.
What was invented in Ingolstadt?
Why has quattro become such a desirable system for many car enthusiasts? It's all about the German approach to engineering - these guys know how to hone any technology to a shine.
Well, let's see what's inside the all-wheel drive Audi.
First of all, it must be said that quattro can use both a manual gearbox and an automatic one, and the layout of the drive can also vary depending on the model. But be that as it may, the main elements of the system are always:
- Transmission;
- razdatka (transfer case);
- cardan transmission;
- main gear;
- cross-axle differentials available on each axle.
As we have already said, gearboxes can be installed in a variety of ways, but in our case there is one design feature - the gearbox is mechanically combined with a transfer case, which redistributes the engine torque along the axles.
In recent years, Audi engineers have gone even further and shoved into one body not only the gearbox and transfer case, but also the front axle drive shaft, final drive, and also the cross-axle differential in addition.
Separately, it is necessary to mention the center differential, which is also hidden in this case.
With the development of the quattro system, it changed from a primitive one with a mechanical lock to a more advanced Torsen, a technically sophisticated self-locking one with crown gears, capable of changing the redistribution of torque along the axes depending on the driving mode in addition to everything.
Rotation to the front axle, as already mentioned in passing, is transmitted from the transfer case by a shaft to the main gear and differential.
The rear axle gets the torque through the driveline. Structurally, it is made of two shafts, an intermediate support and three hinges of equal angular velocities. The cardan rests against the rear axle, where, as a rule, the main gear and another cross-axle differential are located in the hotel case. By the way, it can be free with a mechanical or electronic lock, and sometimes with a self-locking Torsen.
Watch this video, everything is clear here how quattro works:
I must say that not all four-wheel drive Audis can boast of permanent all-wheel drive. So, for example, models with a transverse motor are equipped with an automatically connected system with a Haldex coupling. Probably, connoisseurs have already realized that such technology is nothing more than a 4Motion drive from Volkswagen.
Ecology and four driving wheels
And in conclusion, friends, a few words about green technologies. Yes, yes, we remembered them in the context of this article for good reason. The fact is that a few years ago, the craftsmen from Audi developed a hybrid all-wheel drive, called the E-tron quattro.
It is organized as follows: the front wheels are rotated by a traditional internal combustion engine, but the rear axle is driven by electric motors. Such is the progress.
See you soon, fellow motorists! Let's explore cars together!
Four rings on the grille, everyone will immediately tell about the manufacturer Audi, and can also remember their Quattro all-wheel drive system. Let's talk about the principle of work and a little history of appearance.
The content of the article:
As already mentioned, all-wheel drive is most often found in SUVs, but passenger cars are not excluded. One of these types of all-wheel drive is known as Quattro, developed by Audi engineers. It would seem that it is possible to take and make an analogue already existing, but alas, there is a difference from competitors.
History of the Quattro Drive
Many Audi vehicles are equipped with all-wheel drive. In fact, Quattro is permanent, all-wheel drive. Torque is constantly transmitted to all four wheels of the car. It was first mentioned in 1980, it was during this period that the company with four rings trademarked its development and designated it as Quattro to drive cars of this kind.
First stage of history:
It can be noted in 1981, in the Quattro system, the center differential was free with a mechanical lock. The lock was electro-pneumatic or manual.
Second generation:
The second stage of Quattro falls on 1988, during this period the principle of operation of the drive has completely changed. A self-locking differential from Torsen has appeared, which is able to distribute torque to the axle up to 80%. The satellites were located perpendicular to the drive shafts. The blocking was independent. In 1995, they made a slight change to the blocking, and since that year it has become electronic.
Third generation:
Starting in 2007, the Torsen self-locking asymmetric differential began to be introduced into Audi cars with Quattro all-wheel drive. It is able to distribute torque along the axles in the usual standard position with a ratio of 40 to 60. It is also able to redistribute torque to the axle with the best grip in the ratio of 70% to the front axle, and if it was the rear one, up to 80%. The satellites in this generation of Quattro are parallel to the Torsen T-3 drive shafts.
Fourth generation:
The year 2010 is considered the beginning of the Quattro, the differential became a self-locking asymmetric with crown gears. The distribution of torque remained the same 40 to 60. But the redistribution to the axle with better grip has changed, now 85% was given to the rear, and if the front, then the standard 70%. An example of such a car can be considered the Audi RS5.
Fifth stage:
The latest generation of Quattro can be considered 2014-2016, Audi began to transfer cars with all-wheel drive to a fully robotic system called E-tron quattro, which itself decides on what basis to distribute torque to the axle, and in particular to the wheel. Thanks to this technology, Quattro all-wheel drive has become not only comfortable to drive, but also auxiliary in unusual situations or on bad roads.
Owners of Audi vehicles with all-wheel drive began to consider two main types of Quattro system, from 2010 and after 2014. Some believe that the Quattro drive, completely entrusted to the robot, will not be able to respond correctly where and how the driver decides. Others believe that the system will be able to get the car out of a difficult situation, thereby avoiding an accident or a similar collision. As you can see, there are two sides, pluses and minuses.
What are the main parts of the Quattro
What is the difference between Quattro and other similar systems. Firstly, it is a permanent four-wheel drive, as already mentioned, and secondly, it is a longitudinal arrangement of the engine and transmission parts. This arrangement is typical for many Audi cars.
The standard Quattro all-wheel drive kit includes:
- Transmission;
- transfer case;
- cardan transmission;
- cross-axle differential;
- main gear set.
How the Quattro system works
The Quattro system can be paired with both automatic and manual transmissions. Before that, we have already talked about a similar system, but in Quattro the principle of construction is slightly different.
The front drive axle shaft transmits torque from the transfer case to the main gear and the front axle cross-axle differential. The shaft itself is placed in a completely separate casing. In the penultimate Audi models, the front axle differential, drive shaft, main gear, transfer case and gearbox are in the same housing.
For the cross-axle differential, a free differential is installed in front, and since 1995 it has been blocked electronically. The Quattro all-wheel drive device starts with a gearbox that is connected to a transfer case. This design includes a center differential, it distributes torque to both axles. The differential housing is mechanically connected to the gearbox.
The very distribution of torque on the Audi axle occurs depending on the transfer case and its design, it can be transmitted through drive shafts or a separate gear train.
You can highlight another all-wheel drive from Audi, this is the E-tron Quattro. By design, this drive is used in hybrid propulsion systems for new vehicles. To help the internal combustion engine, two electric motors are installed. For the front axle, the engine power is 33 kW, and for the rear axle - 60 kW. The electric motors are powered by lithium-ion batteries installed in the middle of the car.
Video Audi RS5 with all-wheel drive of the new generation:
The quattro all-wheel drive system has been used by Audi on its cars for over 25 years.
Its distinguishing feature is that it constantly distributes torque, taking into account the need, simultaneously between four wheels. This property allows for excellent active safety performance, stable grip of all wheels on all surfaces, maintaining perfect stability even in the event of a side wind.
Quattro all-wheel drive system allows you to make instant acceleration, achieve good handling, while maintaining stability when making maneuvers and diverging from an oncoming car at high speeds.
So what is it that allows vehicles with quattro all-wheel drive to achieve such perfect performance?
A feature of quattro technology is that it is used on machines where the engine and transmission are placed longitudinally. There are six generations of all-wheel drive system Quattro according to unofficial statistics.
Four-wheel drive on Audi cars was carried out by the grandson of Ferdinand Porsche - engineer Ferdinand Piech. He was the first to introduce an all-wheel drive system in the Audi 80. A cardan shaft was used to drive the rear wheels, the rear gearbox was the same in design as the front one, but it was turned 180 degrees. This design was distinguished by the absence of an interaxle differential, which led to certain difficulties in sharp turns and when parking. This test car was dubbed the Audi A1 (project 262).
Then the second generation appeared, where the center differential had already appeared. Gradually, new changes and improvements were introduced, developing the quattro all-wheel drive system, the best of which have survived to this day.
System device
Today, there are various modifications of Quattro all-wheel drive systems, but despite the differences in their designs, a common device stands out:
gearbox, transfer case, rear axle drive, and rear axle differential, front axle drive shaft, final drive and front axle differential.
Diagram of the quattro all-wheel drive system:
1 - gearbox; 2 - transfer case; 3 - cardan transmission; 4 - main gear and rear cross-axle differential; 5 - front axle drive shaft; 6 - main gear and front cross-axle differential.
The transmission can be equipped with both an automatic transmission and a manual transmission. The transfer box is connected directly to the gearbox.
By design, it provides the inclusion of an interaxle differential, which distributes torque to the rear and front axles. The differential housing is mechanically connected to the gearbox. The torque on the axle can be distributed depending on the design of the transfer case through a separate gear train or drive shafts.
How quattro works
The principle of operation of quattro can be seen on the example of quattro VI used on the Audi RS5. The differential, which is equipped with ring gears, has a traction distribution in normal conditions of 40:60. With automatic partial blocking, thrust transfer is carried out within 70/30 to 15/85 (forward / backward).
As soon as there is a difference between the front and rear wheels in the speed of rotation, the satellites turn and, thanks to the profile of the teeth, the driven end gears move apart, compressing the clutch package. He also produces a partial differential lock. The highest torque that can be applied to the rear axle reaches 85%, to the front - about 70%. Due to the fact that the ring gear differential has a wide range of torque redistribution, it significantly outperforms its previous opponents in terms of traction provided. Torque and forces are redistributed according to driving conditions and without delay. Maximum speed and efficiency are ensured by working on a mechanical principle.
One of the main advantages of a crown gear differential is its low weight and compactness. The assembly weighs nearly 2kg less than the previous generation differential, weighing in at 4.8kg. In the RS 5, engineers combine a crown gear differential with software that manages braking, called torque vectoring. The new system allows for a dynamic and precise vehicle behavior in any cornering.
Video:
Today, three versions of the quattro lead the avant-garde of all-wheel drive technology: quattro permanent all-wheel drive, quattro permanent all-wheel drive with crown gears and center differential, and quattro with sport differential.
Not so long ago it became known that a completely new all-wheel drive transmission is waiting for us soon. The proprietary Quattro system will change dramatically, becoming electric. The front wheels will still be driven by a traditional motor, while the rear wheels will be powered by two electric motors. That is, it will become a hybrid, and will comply with the Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle technology, which will allow trips only from electric traction, and the batteries can be recharged from a conventional household electrical network.
Rice is a quattro hybrid powertrain:
1 - internal combustion engine; 2 - gearbox; 3 - high voltage cable; 4 - electric motor; 5 - high-voltage storage battery; 6 - rear axle with electric drive.
Since the advent of Quattro technology to this day, it has been improving, thanks to the fact that the leading and best engineers of the Audi concern are working on it, using the most advanced technologies and solutions in its development. There is no limit to perfection, so the quattro system will evolve, moving progress into the future.
The all-wheel drive system, developed by the German manufacturer Audi, has come a long way, which began with a small military vehicle Iltis, assembled by Volkswagen developers. She quickly improved and very soon left all her relatives far behind, firmly taking a leadership position. Even many rally aces have preferred the Quattro over many other models.
Below we consider the most famous all-wheel drive cars from Germany, which have become legends in automotive history. But before that, let's get acquainted with the undeniable advantages of the system, as well as some of its shortcomings.
Advantages and disadvantages of cars equipped with all-wheel drive
So, here are the main advantages of Audi all-wheel drive models:
- high cross-country ability;
- regardless of the condition of the road surface, the start of movement and acceleration take place at good acceleration without unwanted slipping;
- sensitive handling;
- swiftness and stability;
- effective engine braking.
Cars Audi all wheel drive have some flaws:
- higher fuel consumption;
- car prices are much higher;
- in the event of extreme situations, you can abruptly and unexpectedly lose directional stability and control if you do not have good driving skills;
- structural complexity, which entails a rather expensive and time-consuming repair.
Overview of popular Audi car models: Quattro all-wheel drive
Audi Quattro Coupe
The Quattro Coupe has an elegant look, which is formed by thin pillars and small wheels. It is equipped with a turbocharged five-cylinder engine with good power and torque. The car is able to accelerate in just 7 seconds. Its maximum speed is 220 kilometers per hour. The car has excellent grip.
The steering is light and slow, but at the same time quite informative. The steering wheel is attractive because you can create the perfect effort on it, giving a certain sense of confidence.
Audi Sport Quattro
Audi Sport has become a kind of extreme solution for developers. She acquired a shorter wheelbase, her weight was 1.2 tons with a power of 302 liters. With. The car can accelerate from standstill in just 4.8 seconds to 100 kilometers. It became the greatest representative of a rally-directed car in the history of its manufacturer. Its distinctive features are “nostrils” in the hood for additional air intake and “gills” in the wings for fuel removal.
The steering is quite heavy, but responsive. The clutch and propulsion system are characterized by a certain rigidity. When cornering, there is no roll, the steering wheel is very informative. Manoeuvres, the car performs willingly and easily, with a change in balance, based on the level of opening of the damper and the work of the brake pedal.
Audi RS4 Avant
This model Audi equipped with all-wheel drive system combines classic features with modern ones. It is compact and straight, has good visibility and excellent build quality. A distinctive feature is the most powerful eight-cylinder engine, which develops a fairly high speed in a matter of seconds.
The RS4 has good suspension, roll control, an advanced hydraulic system that is able to stabilize the body position during cornering maneuvers without disturbing the overall balance. The car has a certain plasticity and excellent control on the road. The steering is light, but absolutely confident.
Audi all-wheel drive cars are perfect for lovers of high speeds, and at the same time safe driving, lovers of travel and outdoor activities. Such a car will be able to emphasize your ideal style and solidity.
