05 Feb 07
Q4, from 'quadrifoglio', is Alfa Romeo-speak for four-wheel drive. Alfa's full-time torque-split system has a central self-locking Torsen differential. Q2 is a self-locking front differential for front-wheel-drive models, using a Torsen LSD to distribute torque between the front wheels for optimum traction, grip and stability, reduced understeer and lesser intervention by the traction control and ESP.
A wolf in sheep's clothing - a car that doesn't look very fast, but is. The name may have been derived from the Metropolitan Police term for a rapid unmarked car or 'quiet' car, but it now most often applies to German saloons with big engines, such as V8-powered BMWs with the badge-delete option.
Audi's patented all-wheel-drive system, these days a full-time 4WD with central Torsen differential. Audi likes it written with a small Q. First came to prominence on the iconic Group B rally 'Ur-Quattro' coupe of the early 80s, now offered in all of the company's models.
