It all depends on the DRIVER.

A good driver in a clapped out slammed chevy vega can sometimes get further than a bad driver in a lifted lockered monster.

Its a big variable.

Generally, the disadvantages of a 2wd vs a 4wd center around a lack of a t-case with a low range, the inability to pull oneself up over things...and that with an open diff, if ONE tire loses traction, you're stuck.

So, if doing 2wd, you can do like Xterra Racer, and lock the rear, so one tire slipping DOESN'T mean you're stuck, get the fattest, tallest tires that will fit, to maximize flotation and traction, and wheel with adequate recovery gear/friends for the terrain.

If all you're doing is fire roads, and dirt roads to fishing spots, etc....you don't need to DO anything, you're fine as is.



If you're going through deep mud, or sugar sand, etc....well, then you DO need to do things.

As for rock climbs over boulder fields, etc....you can TB.