It helps a lot. Think about it. If the backend of a FWD vehicle slides, then there will be lost traction and it could slide into an enbankment or whatever, Same with a RWD, the front wheels may slip and you cannot turn or brake that well, causeing you to hit whatever your headed at. Whereas an AWD vehicle like my jeep GRAND CHEROKEE, can compensate for any lost traction in the front or back by delivering more traction to wherever it is needed.
Therefore, It would kick your mom's minivan's ASS.
Therefore, It would kick your mom's minivan's ASS.