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      10-26-2013, 09:45 AM   #32
Elk
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Drives: 2012 335i
Join Date: Apr 2012
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Quote:
Originally Posted by btbossman View Post
...Ive hydroplaned(around 80mph) to a certain degree several times in rwd's...NEVER in awd's...
The drivetrain has absolutely nothing top do with resistance to hydroplaning. This is solely the function of the tires.

Hydroplaning occurs when the tread of the tires are unable to displace the amount of water on the road. The tires lose contact with the road and instead skim on the surface of the water - a/k/a hydroplane.

This is an example of the misunderstanding of basic physics that can get an AWD driver in trouble.

AWD is great for initial acceleration in slippery conditions. BMW's xDrive does nothing to improve handling, cornering, resistance to hydroplaning, traction while underway, etc.

I agree with the winter beater concept. I am in Minnesota and an RWD 335 with dedicated snow tires is my winter beater. It is a great winter car while the toys stay inside.
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