When it comes to all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, Audi’s quattro technology stands as an industry benchmark. For decades, Audi has refined this system to provide superior handling, traction, and performance across a wide range of conditions—whether on the track, on snow, or off-road. At the heart of the quattro system lies advanced differential technology, which ensures optimal power distribution between the wheels. Let’s take a closer look at how Audi’s differentials work and why they make the quattro system so iconic.
What is the Audi Quattro System?
The Audi quattro system is an all-wheel-drive system designed to deliver power to all four wheels, improving grip and stability. First introduced in 1980 with the legendary Audi Quattro coupe, this technology revolutionized rally racing and set a new standard for road-going vehicles.
Unlike traditional AWD systems, quattro uses sophisticated differentials to distribute torque between the front, rear, and individual wheels depending on driving conditions. This not only maximizes traction but also enhances the driving experience, ensuring confidence in all types of weather and terrains.
Types of Differentials in Audi's Quattro System
Unlike traditional AWD systems, quattro uses sophisticated differentials to distribute torque between the front, rear, and individual wheels depending on driving conditions. This not only maximizes traction but also enhances the driving experience, ensuring confidence in all types of weather and terrains.
Torsen Center Differential
The Torsen (Torque-Sensing) center differential is the most commonly used differential in Audi’s quattro system, especially in longitudinally mounted engines.
- How It Works: The Torsen differential uses worm gears to distribute torque dynamically between the front and rear axles. In normal driving conditions, torque is split evenly (50:50). However, when one axle begins to lose traction, the Torsen differential can redirect up to 80% of the torque to the axle with better grip.
- Why It’s Great: The system operates mechanically, meaning it reacts instantly and does not require electronic intervention. This ensures seamless power distribution for a smooth and stable driving experience.
Example Models: Audi A4, A6, and high-performance vehicles like the Audi S4 and S6.
Crown Gear Center Differential
Introduced in Audi’s high-performance models like the RS series, the crown gear differential takes power distribution to the next level.
- How It Works: Unlike the Torsen differential, the crown gear center differential is lighter and allows for more precise torque control. Under normal conditions, it splits power 40:60 (front to rear), which gives the car a rear-biased handling characteristic for sportier performance. Depending on traction, it can send up to 70% of the torque to the front axle or 85% to the rear.
- Why It’s Great: This setup offers improved agility and responsiveness, making it ideal for high-performance driving while still maintaining stability in low-traction situations.
Example Models: Audi RS5, RS6, and RS7.
Sport Differential
For even greater performance, Audi offers a sport differential on the rear axle in models equipped with quattro.
- How It Works: The sport differential uses electronically controlled multi-plate clutches to actively distribute torque between the left and right rear wheels. This is known as torque vectoring, which allows the differential to send more torque to the outside wheel during cornering.
- Why It’s Great: By pushing more power to the outer wheel, the sport differential reduces understeer and improves cornering performance, making the car feel agile and precise even at high speeds.
Example Models: Audi S4, S5, and RS models.
