What distinguishes unibody from body over frame construction?

Unibody construction is characterized by an integrated design where the body and frame of the vehicle are combined into a single structural unit. This construction technique allows unibody vehicles to effectively absorb or redirect collision energy during an impact. The design disperses forces throughout the vehicle's structure, which enhances safety for occupants by minimizing the potential for injury during a collision. This energy-absorbing capability is one of the primary advantages of unibody construction compared to body over frame vehicles, which tend to have a separate frame and body.

In contrast, body over frame vehicles retain a more traditional design where the body is mounted on a separate, robust frame. While this may provide advantages in terms of durability and ease of modifications, it does not offer the same level of energy absorption as a unibody structure. Therefore, the ability of unibody construction to manage collision energy effectively distinguishes it as the correct choice in this question.