Welcome to the ultimate showdown between Bosch and Zimmermann, two titans of automotive brake systems!
We’re about to delve deep into their performance, quality, costs, and even the pros and cons of each.
Who will take the crown as the superior brand? Buckle up, because we’re about to find out.
Bosch vs Zimmermann – Brand Comparison Table
| Bosch | Zimmermann | |
| Country of Origin | Germany | Germany |
| Year Founded | 1886 | 1947 |
| Made In | Germany, Czech Republic, China, Mexico | Germany |
| Founder | Robert Bosch | Otto Zimmermann |
| Parent | Robert Bosch Stiftung (92%), Bosch Family (8%) | Stand-alone |
| Overall Quality | good quality, safe and reliable pick | just as good as OEM brake discs with their Coat-Z series |
Bosch QuietCast vs Zimmermann Coat-Z Brake Rotors Comparison
In this section, I’m going to compare the most popular Series – QuietCast and Coat-Z from both brands by various product specs & features, prices, warranty, durability, performance, stopping power and noise levels.
Here is a detailed comparison table showcasing what each brand has to offer:
| Bosch | Zimmermann | |
| Series | QuietCast | Coat-Z |
| Material | Zinc and aluminum | Cast Iron |
| Coating | Aluminum-zinc coating | Coat Z – anti corrosion coating |
| Type | Vented | Vented |
| Durability | Heat-flowed castings for silent operation and long product life | The grey cast iron is further treated with additional ingredients to stabilize its properties, ensuring maximum durability |
| Performance | Reduces unwanted vibrations and noise | German production quality with Coat-Z coating that not only enhances longevity but also improves the overall performance |
| Price | $28.00 – $269.00 | $28.25 – $445.32 |
| Warranty | covers defects in material and workmanship for 12 Months | covers defects in material and workmanship for 24 Months |
| Stopping Power Rating (More Stars = More Stopping Power) | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Noise Levels Rating (Fewer Stars = Less Noise) | ⭐ | ⭐ |
| Performance Over Stock Rating (More Stars = More Performance) | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Bosch QuietCast Premium vs Zimmermann Premium Ceramic Brake Pads Comparison
In the following section, I’m going to compare the most renowned Brake Pads series from both brands by various product specs & features, prices, warranty, performance, stopping power, brake dust accumulation and noise levels.
Here is a detailed comparison table showcasing what each brand has to offer:
| Bosch | Zimmermann | |
| Series | QuietCast Premium | Premium Ceramic |
| Material | Ceramic | Ceramic |
| Performance | Bosch QuietCast Premium Brake Pads represent a significant advancement in aftermarket brake pad technology. Utilizing industry-leading preattached rubber core shims and Molded Shim Technology, QuietCast ensures exceptionally quiet operation, meeting the expectations of both mechanics and customers. | Zimmermann Premium Ceramic brake pads are engineered to provide a quieter and consistently pleasant braking experience, minimizing noise and enhancing overall performance. |
| Price | $20.72 – $105.04 | $24.29 – $308.69 |
| Warranty | covers defects in materials or workmanship for a period of 12 months | covers defects in material and workmanship for 24 months |
| Dust Levels Rating (Fewer Stars = Less Dust) | ⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
| Stopping Power Rating (More Stars = More Stopping Power) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Noise Levels Rating (Fewer Stars = Less Noise) | ⭐ | ⭐ |
| Performance Over Stock Rating (More Stars = More Performance) | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
Differences
1. Overall Performance and Quality
When comparing the overall performance of Bosch and Zimmermann brakes, two reputable brands in the automotive industry, there are several key points to consider. Both have gathered a mix of praises and criticisms from users based on their experiences.
Bosch
- Some users reported that Bosch brake pads and rotors failed within a few years.
- Others have praised Bosch Quietcast Premium Rotors and Brake Pads, highlighting the perfect fit, excellent OEM quality, quiet operation, low brake dust, and superior stopping power.
- Bosch is generally viewed as a reliable choice, though some users have reported noise issues.
Zimmermann
- Users have given positive feedback on Zimmermann brake parts, particularly the Z coated and drilled rotors.
- Zimmermann’s rotors are touted as high-end OEM replacements, offering harder bite and less brake dust.
- Many users praise Zimmermann for their durability – one user has been using them for two years without any issues.
- Another user finds the zinc coating beneficial as it prevents rust and appreciates the vents on the front rotors.
In summary, both Bosch and Zimmermann provide quality brake parts. Bosch has a slight edge in terms of quiet operation, while Zimmermann stands out for its durable, high-performance rotors.
2. Rotors and Brake Pads Prices
I’ve gathered some interesting information regarding the brake rotor prices for both brands. You can take a look at them in the table below:
| Bosch Rotors Prices⁽¹⁾ | Zimmermann Rotors Prices⁽²⁾ | |
| Lowest Priced Rotors | Bosch QuietCast Premium Brake Rotor goes from $26.35 | Zimmermann Coat-Z Brake Rotor goes from $19.97 |
| Most Expensive Rotors | Bosch QuietCast™ Premium Front Brake Rotor goes for $328.67 | Zimmermann Formula-Z Front Passenger Side Brake Rotor goes for $1,072.23 |
Alternatively, you can see the brake pads prices for Bosch and Zimmermann below:
| Bosch Brake Pads Prices⁽¹⁾ | Zimmermann Brake Pads Prices⁽²⁾ | |
| Lowest Priced Pads | Bosch Blue Semi-Metallic Rear Disc Brake Pads go from $11.35 | Zimmermann Front Disc Brake Pad Set go from $19.68 |
| Most Expensive Pads | Bosch EuroLine Semi-Metallic Front Disc Brake Pads go for $215.32 | Zimmermann Rear Disc Brake Pad Set go for $269.93 |
3. Pros and Cons
In this section, I’ve tried to showcase the most noticeable advantages and disadvantages for these two experts in brakes.
Bosch
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Cost-effective | ❌ Some users have reported negative experiences with their brakes |
| ✔ Eco-Friendly | |
| ✔ Availability |
Zimmermann
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ German production quality | ❌ Rare durability issues |
| ✔ Coat Z Coated Brake Discs | |
| ✔ Positive customer reviews |
Which Is the Better Brand Overall?
After evaluating both brands, it’s clear that Zimmermann and Bosch have their unique strengths.
While some users reported issues with Bosch, it is generally considered reliable and cost-effective.
Zimmermann, on the other hand, boasts German-made quality and positive customer feedback.
Given the marginal differences and both brands’ strong points, I declare this a tie.
Both brands offer reliable braking solutions depending on individual preferences and needs.