Can anyone give me an idea of 1) the performance difference, and 2) the mileage difference between the AWD and RWD versions of the Magnum?

 

AWD would be nice to drive in bad weather, but I would think that the RWD would be faster - due to less frictional devices and less weight. Plus RWD is a lot cheaper. Wouldn't the AWD car sit higher off the ground?

Bob

 

I just found this:

Engine Power Torque 0-60(seconds) EPA Mileage

5.7 V8 340 @ 5,000 rpm 390 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm 6.3
17/23

3.5 V6 250 @ 6,400 rpm 250 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm 8.6
19/27 RWD
18/24 AWD

2.7 V6 190 @ 6,400 rpm 190 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm 10.5
21/28 RWD
17/23 AWD

http://www.allpar.com/cars/lx/magnum-dodge.html

Looks like there is a significant penalty for the AWD in terms of mileage. Numbers are not listed for the RT, but I would assume that it would be affected in a similar manner. Looks like the highway mileage is most affected.

Mike

 

looks like allpar has their numbers wrong, 17/23 is the 5.7 with AWD, the RWD 5.7 is 17/25, and I don't think you will even be able to get a 2.7 AWD, think it's only offered with the 3.5 and 5.7.

 

From what I have read you can get the AWD in the 3.5 and the 5.7. Speed will be about the same due to the fact in the 5.7 you go from a 2.82 rear end to an 3.07. I have not seen any numbers for the 3.5 for the rear end gear. The milage looks about right with the RWD getting 17/25 and the AWD geting 17/23 for the 5.7.

 

Doesn't sound like a big deal for the AWD, but the extra traction sure would be nice on the days when I'm going skiing, and even the rainy days in town (there are a LOT in Vancouver).

Mike

 

It would be nice to have the abillity to turn off awd modes when you don't need it just to improve the mileage even if it's a little.

 

It would be nice indeed, but then it would not be AWD anymore

It would simply be traditional 4WD, like on pickups.