Basic technological discussion of all the formats of engine to drive wheels out there and advantages/disadvantages of each in each type of racing.
Should be a clear demonstration that there is no such thing as the “best” setup, but there is the “best for your goals and plans”.
Each will have pitfalls and downsides as well as advantages.
I’ll start off basic.
FF
+
Lighter
Simpler (in some aspects)
Concentrates the weight over the traction wheels
Frees up interior room
Cheaper
Considered by some to be more manageable in foul weather then any RWD setup.
Launch traction limited
Front wheels required to do too much… break, accelerate and turn at the same time during racing conditions
Understeer
Torque steer
FR
+
MR
+
RR
+
FA (Front engine, AWD)
+
MA (Mid engine, AWD)
(Can’t think of a vehicle of this setup right now)
RA (Rear engine, AWD, such as 911)
+
I’ll fill it in as I go, but feel free to add.