What’s the Difference Between the Drivetrain and Powertrain?

Performance is a key part of the Mercedes-Benz legacy. Understanding the difference between drivetrain vs. powertrain can help pick out the performance-ready vehicle you’ve been dreaming of. Keyes European is here to help you learn about the essential parts and systems in your car so you can understand what makes every drive engaging, and get the service that your vehicle deserves.

What is the Powertrain?

At its foundation, the powertrain is the system that makes your vehicle go. It features some of the most essential parts found in a car, including the engine, transmission, driveshaft, axles, and differentials. The primary function of the powertrain system is to take the energy produced by the engine, or motor in EV and hybrid vehicles, and convert it into forward motion, to help your vehicle go. It takes this power and then sends it to the wheels, which propel the car forward. Each of the parts and systems in the powertrain plays an important role. The engine or motor produces the power, and the transmission helps to control and regulate how much power is sent to the wheels. The driveshaft connects the transmission to the differential, which helps with turning, and the axles help send power to the wheels.

What is the Drivetrain?

The drivetrain comprises the essential parts in the powertrain system, with one big exception. The drivetrain does not include the engine. Instead, this system transfers power from the engine to the wheels. There’s a fair amount of overlap with the powertrain, but it’s not synonymous. What’s more, it includes components that aren’t part of the powertrain, like the transfer case in 4WD and 4MATIC® AWD vehicles.

Schedule Vehicle Service in Van Nuys, CA

The more you know about the essential parts and systems in your vehicle, the easier it will be to schedule service when you need it. Keyes European is here to provide the information you need. Visit our dealership for performance-ready vehicles and service you can rely on.