Why is it, when I take the dog out early in the morning in snow or ice, that the cars I come across in ditches are, almost without exception, 4 X 4's?
Having driven in ice and snow for more than 45 years, I can provide a simple and definitive answer.
4x4's
accelerate much better than two wheel drive vehicles in slippery conditions, giving a feeling of invincibility. Their
stopping ability is no better and frequently worse*. Needless to say it is stopping that keeps you out of ditches.
tanstaafl.
*Worse if it is a true four wheel drive (as opposed to an all wheel drive) vehicle without a center differential. Lock up the wheels on one axle and the wheels on the other axle lock up with them. Presto!--no steering.
db