Regular ventilated, cross-drilled, carbon/ceramic, slotted, slotted and cross-drilled rotor.

Is there really a difference and if so what (Other then looks)?

Can the rotors be changed with out changing the calipers?


Thanks

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disc_brake

 

They will all perform the same for the most part. Lightweight 2 piece rotors improve performance some, but nothing you'll notice at all in daily driving. For track use 2 pc help a little. I don't think there are any carbon brakes for our car, but if there are they cost thousands of dollars and are designed strictly for track use only. They don't heat up enough to work properly under regular driving conditions. Leave those to the F1 guys.

All of the various rotors you'll buy for our car are ventilated. Holes, slots, J hooks, etc. are strictly for looks. They won't benefit you more than an OEM blank rotor as far as stopping power during street driving. Pad choice has a far greater effect on that.

Yes, calipers should last the life of the car and can be rebuilt inexpensively. You're not likely to ever need new calipers unless you damage one. Many people change rotors when they don't need to. A rotor can be resurfaced for under $20 each if needed. Probably at least 2 or 3 times during its useful life.

 

This FAQ page for Race technologies, which supplies brembo systems, is helpful in highlighting the supposed technological differences. (scroll down starting middle of page)

Support - FAQ : Race Technologies

 

About the only thing I would pay any extra for is cryogenically treated rotors. Cryo is a process of deep freezing the rotors after casting and is a sort of reverse heat treating process. I don't buy oem rotors, they cost more without proven advantage.

Pads on the other hand I always buy oem. I don't track my car and I don't need race brakes. The pad compound in the oem brakes is the best Nissan could find for street use. I don't put any stock in claims made by aftermarket pad suppliers.

 

Slotted or the hook is the best for rotor you can buy. If you are in an area where you do canyon carving you may benefit from these rotors. Cross-drilled not so much plus if the cross drilled are not made well they crack etc. If you don't drive hard then pads may be the easiest but some of those create more dust and noise.