Buying a van isn’t an easy process there are so many decisions to make including the model, wheelbase, roof height, engine sizes and with certain models whether you’d prefer a front wheel drive or rear wheel drive. This option is common with large panel vans and now is available with certain medium-sized panel vans, so we have looked at the advantages and disadvantages of each…

Front-Wheel Drive

A front wheel drive generates the power from the engine to the two front wheels.

Advantages:

• They are usually more cost-effective than a rear-wheel drive and cheaper as there are fewer components.

• Better fuel economy because the weight of the drive train is less than a rear wheel drive, so a front wheel drive vans can travel further on the same amount of fuel.

• Front wheel drive vans tend to have better traction if the load area is relatively empty because most of the van’s weight sits over the front axle.

• There is more room in the cab because there is no interior hump like there is with a rear wheel drive.

• Front wheel drive vans are often lower in height which makes loading and unloading easier.

Disadvantages:

• The main disadvantage of a front wheel drive van is that it is heavy at the front which can cause turning can be difficult or not as sharp especially at higher speeds.

• Also, the weight of the van at the front can cause the tyres and wheels to wear quicker than a rear wheel drive.

Rear Wheel Drive

Rear wheel drive is when the engine’s power is transmitted to rear wheels instead which then drive the vehicle. Most heavier vehicles use rear wheel drive.

Advantages:

• Better towing capacity because with the extra weight at the rear of the vehicle from the trailer gives the rear wheels more traction and the front wheels better steering ability.

• They will have better handling and balance because the weight is distributed over the whole van.

• Cheaper to repair, with a front wheel drive all components are in one place so repairing one part will require moving another which will cost more in maintenance hours. But rear wheel drive vans have easier access to their components.

• The layout of the drivetrain in a rear wheel drive can handle heavier engines making them more durable.

Disadvantages:

• Harder to manoeuvre uphill because rear wheel drives have a pushing momentum rather than a pulling one.

• Wheels are more likely to get stuck and spin in snow and mud so deep tread tyres are also advised for rear wheel drive vans.

• Higher fuel consumption because the driveshaft is considerably heavier.

• Rear wheel drive vans have less traction than a front wheel drive when the load area is empty, so it is best to drive a front wheel drive if you will be driving around with an empty load area.

We’re sure this post will help to make your decision easier!