There is no special need for a car to be mid engined for perfect weight distribution - BMW manage a 50:50 split weith every car they produce. But on the whole yes, mid-engined (or even front mid-engined) is the way to go.
4wd is safer yes. But if safety is a prime concern you shouldn't really be buying a car with 400bhp under the bonnet. You'd be much happier with a Volvo.