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Yes you are close. I'll let these 2 engineers help explain:Sure, I'm interested.
I'd guess so that the front and rear wheels aren't riding in the same rut, gives a chance for the wheels to touch a little bit of fresh ground. Am I close?
Braja Narayan Panda
Mechanical Engineer
Why do cars have a wider front track width compared to rear track width?
While cornering and braking weight transfer takes place diagonally that is from rear right to front left or vice versa. Larger front track width decreases this weight transfer.
Rear wheels closer helps in attaining traction. Front tire wider than rear also helps in steering (decreases turning radius.)
And weight transfer is inversely proportional to track width.
P.S This answer is written based on the assumption that the reader knows the basics of vehicle dynamics ,and has idea about castor, camber ,toe and turning radius
Sudhan
Automobile Engineer
Why do 4 wheel drive vehicles have a wider front track width compared to rear track width?
As you may know wheel track is the center to center distance between the wheels, while looking at the vehicle in front view.
The reason for using a setup wherein the front track is bigger than rear, is to provide easy maneuverability in turns.
This setup will enable the driver to take a turn with keeping in mind the front distance of the vehicle. As the front track is bigger the driver need not worry about vahicle’s rear end hitting anything.
Imagine a situation where the front track is smaller, then driver will have to take turns more cautiously because the rear track being larger will have a greater chance of hitting other objects.