Not an SUV, truck, or van but car. Preferably one that doesn't cost too much.
2006-09-13 17:13:27 · 19 answers · asked by indrep33 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Commuting
Generally speaking, a vehicle with AWD (all-wheel drive) is best for winter because all 4 wheels pull/push the car, as opposed to just the front wheels or rear wheels.
- Subaru is about your only choice for an AWD car. They are pretty reliable and a relatively good value for the money. Because all 4 wheels are always pulling/pushing the car, it somewhat negatively affects your fuel economy, versus a front- or rear-wheel drive car.
Second best would be a FWD (front-wheel drive) car. The front wheels pull the car. Since more than half of a vehicles weight is on the front end because of the engine, you get better traction than with a rear-wheel drive car.
Most cars nowadays are FWD.
- The Volvo 850 is a FWD car equipped with a special automatic transmission that has a "Winter Mode". Basically, when engaged in Winter Mode, the transmission is designed to start the car off in 2nd gear instead of 1st gear. This enables the car to have better traction upon initial acceleration. A nice feature for snowy state drivers.
Worst would be a rear-wheel drive car. Less than half of a cars weight is on the rear end, so winter traction is more difficult.
- I DO however recommend the Volvo 940. It's a very dependable, safe, and affordable used car. Although it is rear wheel drive, it is equipped with what is called a "locking differential". When one of the rear wheels starts to spin due to a lack of traction, the locking differential engages and keeps your wheels from spinning. It's a very handy feature, speaking from personal experience.
2006-09-13 19:04:04 · answer #1 · answered by palebeachbum 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A car with All Wheel Drive capabilities, a powerful petrol engine should be ideal. Make sure that you have a demister and a rear wiper. A Subaru Outback may be is a good choice. It's got AWD, enough luggage space to carry more during those few, un-avoidable winter runs.
2006-09-13 17:26:52 · answer #2 · answered by www.quartermile.in 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would second Subarus. They are built for winter and outbacks. Subaru Legacy Wagon. If you can, get a turbo model. Very nice with power and 4 wheel drive.
2006-09-13 17:16:03 · answer #3 · answered by hocky_06 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Something with a radio and a working rear defrost. That's all you need!
Ford Focus is a good little car.
A classic like the honda Accord is always a safe bet.
Either of those can be a good deal at a used lot.
2006-09-13 17:15:54 · answer #4 · answered by Katherine 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
if i was you and im glad im not id move to a warmer climate or just buy some chains, i like the 1930 model "A" ford it has a higher rim heigth upto 21 inches
2006-09-13 17:58:03 · answer #5 · answered by poebimbo 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Honda its lighweight (great on Gas) and its FWD which is what you need in the winter. and hondas tend not to rust quickly like most cars when the city thorws salt on the road t melt the snow.
10 pts please
2006-09-13 17:20:04 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
for snow and ice covered roads , i recomend a little front wheel drive gmc ,, thats pontiac,cadillac,oldsmobile,buick ,chevy I drive tow truck in the rockies and has always used my little pontiac sunbird to get to my truck in the worst of conditions
2006-09-14 00:54:04 · answer #7 · answered by foothill4fun 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
most front wheel drive cars go good in the snow,all wheel drives are good but it all boils down to the driver and thier experience
2006-09-13 17:23:29 · answer #8 · answered by dragnoldmetal 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A vehicle that has a built in AC system to get you warm.
2006-09-13 17:21:14 · answer #9 · answered by WA 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Volvo or Saab
2006-09-13 19:00:09 · answer #10 · answered by swenson0 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋