[ar5boosted]

Remember that a 2WD setup is really a 1WD setup and a 4WD setup is normally a 1 x rear + 1 x front drive, without something like a thorsen lsd.

My old Celica with the permanent Toyota AWD system didn't suck fuel at all for some reason.

It really just depends on how efficient the system is and things like optimising the lubrication can make a big difference.

Most 4WD owners of the older systems are disappointed with the off-road capabilities and go to install things like diff-lockers to reach 3WD status for their vehicles.

So if you have an idea about installing a thorsen on the rear, I'd really try that first and see how good it is. I've seen a lot of VW kombi's in stupid places with big tyres and wheels so now I take the '4WD Only' signs with a grain of salt.