FF layout
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In Automobile design, an FF, or Front-engine, Front wheel drive, layout places both the engine and driven wheels at the front of the vehicle. This layout is typically chosen for its compact packaging - that is, it takes up very little space, allowing the rest of the vehicle to be designed more flexibly. In contrast with the FR layout, the FF layout eliminates the central tunnel needed to accommodate a driveshaft taking power to the rear wheels. Like the RR and MR layouts, it places the heavy engine over the drive wheels which aids traction. However, since the front wheels are almost always steered, traction is comprimised with the FF layout while turning.
Early cars using the FF layout include the Citroën Traction Avant, Saab 92 and the Mini. In the 1980s, the traction and packaging advantages of this layout caused many compact and mid-sized vehicles to adopt it.