Suppose you’re a car enthusiast or have recently been shopping for a new car.
In that case, you may have encountered some terms when browsing vehicle specifications or discussing car models with fellow enthusiasts, such as FD, FF, or DS (see the DS meaning here).
You must discover this term to make the right purchasing decision. So what does FD mean in cars?
In this article, I’ll explore what FD means, how it works, and why it’s an essential factor to consider when selecting a car. So buckle up, and let’s dive into the world of FD!
What Does FD Mean In Cars?
FD can represent various terms depending on the context, namely Failure Detection, Final Drive, specific chassis codes, etc.
Yet, “Failure Detection” is not a common or widely accepted meaning of the acronym.
Another common FD car meaning is “Final Drive,” the last stage in the drivetrain that transfers power from the automatic transmission to the wheels.
The final drive reduces the speed of the engine’s rotational power before it’s transmitted to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to move forward at the desired speed.
The final drive ratio is an important factor that affects a car’s acceleration, fuel efficiency, and top speed.
And it’s determined by dividing the number of teeth on the ring gear by the number of teeth on the pinion gear.
Different cars have different final drive ratios depending on their intended use, such as high-performance sports cars that prioritize acceleration or fuel-efficient economy cars that prioritize fuel economy.
FD is also a specific code used to refer to two car models produced by Honda and Mazda.
A distinct code identifies each car model in Japan, and FD is the unique code assigned to the Honda Civic and Mazda RX-7.
The FD version of the RX-7 was introduced in 1992, while the FD version of Honda Civic first entered the market in 2005.
In Mazda RX-7
What does FD mean in RX7? In the Mazda RX-7, FD stands for “Type FD,” the 3rd gen of the RX-7 sports car series.
The FD Mazda RX-7 was produced from 1992 to 2002 and was known for its distinctive styling, excellent handling, and powerful rotary engine.
The Mazda FD RX-7 offers capacity enhancements with the 13B-REW unit in the world’s first twin-turbo engine mass production.
This engine can provide up to 252 HP. After production ceased in 2002, it was updated to 276 HP.
While turbocharged engines are ideal for a sports automobile, they also feature a fantastic rotary engine. It was also a twin-rotor engine.
The rotor raises the vehicle’s rpm. This improves the car’s sports mode.
The RX-7 FD is highly sought after by car enthusiasts and is considered a rare and iconic sports car, particularly among rotary engine enthusiasts.
In Honda Civic
In Honda Civic, FD stands for the eighth generation of the Civic series. These base models were produced from 2006 to 2011.
The Civic FD is known for its sporty and aerodynamic design, which sets it apart from its predecessors.
The Civic FD car features a more angular and sleeker body with sharper lines, a more prominent front grille, and a lower stance that gives it a more aggressive look.
It was also equipped with various advanced features, including a multi-information display, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and a USB audio interface.
In terms of performance, the Civic FD was powered by various engine options, namely a high-revving 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine and a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine that provided excellent power and fuel efficiency.
As a result, Civic’s performance in snow conditions is remarkable.
FAQs
Is The RX-7 FD Rare?
Yes, the RX-7 FD is considered rare and highly sought-after by car enthusiasts.
The Mazda RX-7 FD was produced from 1992 to 2002 and was the third generation of the RX-7 sports car series.
Compared to the previous generations, the RX-7 FD had a more modern design, improved handling, and a powerful rotary engine, which made it popular among car enthusiasts.
However, the production of the RX-7 FD was limited, especially in the United States, where strict emission regulations led to the model’s discontinuation after 1995.
So RX-7 FDs are relatively rare and can be challenging to find in good condition, driving up their value on the used car market.
Which Is Better, Honda Civic FD Or FB?
It depends. The choice between the Civic FD and FB comes from personal preference and priorities.
The Civic FD may be better when you prioritize sporty styling and performance. In contrast, the Civic FB may better fit you if you prioritize practicality and fuel efficiency.
Reliability-wise, both the Civic FD and FB are known for their durability and low maintenance costs.
Still, the FD has had some issues with its engine oil consumption, which may require frequent oil changes to maintain optimal engine performance.
What Do FF, FR, And FD Mean?
FF vs FR vs FD are abbreviations used in the automotive industry to describe the layout or configuration of a car’s drivetrain.
- FF stands for “Front-engine, FWD (Front-wheel-drive).”
In this configuration, the engine is located in the front of the vehicle, and the power is transmitted to the front wheels, which are responsible for steering and driving.
- FR stands for “Front-engine, RWD (Rear-wheel-drive).” In this configuration, the engine is located in the front of the vehicle.
But the power is transmitted to the rear wheels responsible for driving. In contrast, the front wheels are responsible for steering.
- Another meaning of FD is “Front-engine, 4WD (Four-wheel-drive)” or “Full-time four-wheel drive.” In this configuration, the engine is located in the front of the vehicle.
The power is transmitted to all four wheels, providing better traction and stability on various terrains and weather conditions.
Conclusion
What does FD mean in cars? In conclusion, the meaning of FD in the automotive industry can vary depending on the context in which it is used.
However, in most cases, FD typically means “Final Drive”. In the case of the Mazda RX-7 and Honda Civic, FD refers to the specific model codes for these vehicles.
Now, everything is clear. If you have any questions, feel free to comment here!