how can i tell if my 98 rav 4 L is AWD or 4 WD

Check out: http://www.edmunds.com/toyota/rav4/1998/ ..according to them only the Base and Base Soft top are are AWD, the L Special Edition is not. Built on the Corolla Platform and front wheel drive http://www.cars.com/toyota/rav4/1998/snapshot ....... http://autos.msn.com/research/vip/overview.aspx?year=1998&make=Toyota&model=RAV4 ...both of those sites have even more info/specs for your RAV4

Call Toyota dealer in your area

RAV 4 is an AWD vehicle. Not 4WD. It senses slippage and applies traction front/rear on a percentage basis accordingly. You cannot just set it into 4WD, Some models are FWD, so make sure you know which model that you have,

AWD will be on all the time! It is either a center Torsen differential or A- Trac which senses will slippage and transfers power to the other side of the axle ! A true 4 WD system will have an additional lever either by the automatic or manual shifter or be a button that allows you (AND THIS IS WHAT MAKES IT A TRUE FOUR WHEEL DRIVE,!) to go from 2 hi ( high) 4 hi and down to 4 Lo ( by either the lever or button dial) please hit my helpful link if this gave you a better understanding

Papabewon incorrect the 98 rav 4 was a variant crossover and is NOT an AWD. There is much confusion over this year model and some are label 11x but are in fact 10. In the 10/98 5 door version I own released to Australian Market it is rear wheel drive with the 4WD option being hub lock button on dash.