I need to replace my front brakes. I really want to know what people are running besides Big Brake Kits. For example what upgraded rotors and brake bads combination I can choose.
can you get these euro-spec x-drilled rotors from circle or pacificbmw? if so whats the part number for a 2001 325i? Are these rotors DIRECT replacements for the non-drilled rotors for 3series? I should get these put in when i get my ssr gt3's on.
Euro-spec floating rotors have been proven to be of no advantage over US rotors.
They may look "cool" with the cross-drilling, but once again... hardcore enthusiasts know that cross-drilling has some major compromises and is generally best avoided in a street car application.
Savvy cross-marque enthusiasts will be aware that although Mercedes had introduced cross-drilled rotors on their street cars about 18 months ago, mnay failures and replacements (with solid rotors) have been noted for the classic reasons: cracking, decreased life, excessive pad wear, noise, and dust. And what's even more intesting is this quote from the D-C partnership itself:
"Mercedes is also using drilled and slotted rotors on some of its high performance models. The Chrysler engineers said they don't offer a significant improvement in cooling compared to a standard rotor, and are used primarily to enhance the "racing image" of the vehicle."- source
To improve braking performance without the expense of a big brake kit, consider a better pad - something like a Hawk HP-S or HP-Plus (there are other excellent choices out there, these are just two that I can recommend from personal experience). Stainless steel brake lines are also a good way to improve performance and pedal feel.
Let's also not forget the other importantant component of braking performance - the tires. Braking is simply converting mechanical energy into heat energy, and then dissipating it. Well, your car has two friction surfaces that deal with braking, the brake pads contacting the rotors is one of them. Tires contacting the road are the other. Sticky tires = good braking.
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