Most police cars are rear-wheel drive because they can withstand the extreme conditions under which ...

1. Why are most police cars rear-wheel drive?
Most police cars are rear-wheel drive because they can withstand the extreme conditions under
which police cars often operate. Rear-wheel drive is safer and better handling at high speeds than
front-wheel drive, plus rear-wheel drive cars are less expensive, and easier to repair and maintain.
Rear-Wheel Drive Cars Are More Rugged Than Front-Wheel Drive
Real-wheel drive vehicles are simple and rugged, and can take a lot of abuse without expensive
repairs. Hit a curb or a pothole with a front-wheel drive car and the chances of doing severe damage
are much greater. Usually, damage to a police car will be to the front end, including ramming other
cars to make them stop.
Cost Is A Factor

2. In addition to being safer, the overall cost of maintaining a rear-wheel drive police car is less that
that of maintaining a front-wheel drive police car. This cost factor also is important given budget
restraints faced by some police departments.
Real-Wheel Drive Is Safer With High Speeds
Rear-wheel drive cars handle better and are safer in conditions involving high speeds. In a front-
wheel drive car, most of the weight from the engine and the tri-axle is over the front wheels. In a
rear-wheel drive car, the weight is more evenly distributed for better balance and handling.
Larger Cubic-Inch Engines
Rear-wheel drive cars can handle larger cubic-inch engines, which have more power for high-speed
applications and deliver more torque to the rear wheels than front-wheel drive cars.
One Disadvantage to Rear-Wheel Drive
Front-wheel drive cars handle better than rear-wheel drive in severe weather conditions. Front-
wheel drive cars do not lose as much traction on wet pavement and handle better in snowy
conditions. Rear-wheel drive police cars, however, can benefit from tires designed for severe
weather conditions.

3. Source:
Ask A Scientist: Rear Wheel Drive Vehicles
National Motorist Association: Pros Cons: Rear Drive, Front Drive Or All-wheel Drive
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/1933064