BBK Comparison thread: Brembo vs. StopTech vs. AP Racing

[AP - Chris_B]

Originally Posted by battlewagon

yeah im not mad, i just hate statements like that because they are the same as people bashing products just because they dont cost a lot, such as wheels or even cars as a whole. and i know what AP is to the brake world, probably the best brakes on the planet given their history, though ive never used them or experienced them. i know when respect is due, and AP gets mine

and obviously id put a paycheck down because i think id win the bet and win my money back and then some

OK. I took his comment to mean that without a reputation of performing at the highest level, it is difficult to see how grandiose claims can be supported. And I agree. I've seen a variety of systems "survive" at the hands (and feet!) of an amateur during 5 lap time attack sessions, but failed miserably when put to a more serious test. Some didn't even last that long (C6 Z06). I have heard many massive failure stories from people who thought they were saving some money on brakes. They just had no idea they were going to be spending that saved cash and more on K-rail replacement, not to mention a car rebuild.

Anyone can easily claim a product performs to their satisfaction -- great! Now can a company make a product that performs to the satisfaction of the larger market, continually develop and introduce new products, have reproducible and repeatable set of of quality procedures, manage quality gates with suppliers, ship kits and replacement parts in a timely manner, deal with packaging and shipping companies, support their jobbers, provide high levels of customer service and stand behind their products with reasonable warranties? These are just some of the issues that are underestimated far too often by companies new to the market. Just getting a few of these wrong will be their ultimate downfall.

AP has over 90 years of total automotive experience. Brembo has over 40. Both have been tested and are continually tested in the most brutal environments possible by professionals who get paid to win (not save the car), much of it on live television with nowhere to hide. Alliance??? It's a reasonable question for anyone to ask. Reputations are earned, not claimed.

Chris