Welcome to the fast lane of automotive analysis! I’m revving up to pit two titans of brake systems, EBC and Zimmermann, against each other.
We’ll delve into performance, quality, pricing and more, to help you make an informed decision.
So, buckle up as we determine who truly earns the checkered flag in this high-stakes race of braking supremacy!
EBC vs Zimmermann – Brand Comparison Table
| EBC | Zimmermann | |
| Country of Origin | United Kingdom | Germany |
| Year Founded | 1978 | 1947 |
| Made In | United States and United Kingdom | Germany |
| Founder | Andy Freeman | Otto Zimmermann |
| Parent | Freeman Automotive UK Ltd. | Stand-alone |
| Overall Quality | high-quality pads and slotted rotors | just as good as OEM brake discs with their Coat-Z series |
EBC Slotted vs Zimmermann Coat-Z Brake Rotors Comparison
In this section, I’m going to compare the most popular Series – Slotted 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:
| EBC | Zimmermann | |
| Series | Slotted | Coat-Z |
| Material | Cast Iron | Cast Iron |
| Coating | Anti-corrosion Coating | Coat Z – anti corrosion coating |
| Type | Solid | Vented |
| Durability | When used with high-friction brake pads, the braking system demonstrates extended longevity | The grey cast iron is further treated with additional ingredients to stabilize its properties, ensuring maximum durability |
| Performance | Gases are expelled through the slots, reducing brake fade and minimizing noise for improved performance | German production quality with Coat-Z coating that not only enhances longevity but also improves the overall performance |
| Price | $88.00 – $898.00 | $28.25 – $445.32 |
| Warranty | covers defects in material and workmanship for 12 months or or 10,000 miles of highway use | 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) | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
EBC Redstuff Ceramic 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:
| EBC | Zimmermann | |
| Series | Redstuff Ceramic | Premium Ceramic |
| Material | Ceramic | Ceramic |
| Performance | EBC Redstuff Ceramic brake pads stand out with superior ceramic pad compounds that resist heat buildup, dust, and squealing. Moreover, they eliminate squealing even under extreme cold or hot temperatures, ensuring a quiet and efficient braking experience in all conditions. | Zimmermann Premium Ceramic brake pads are engineered to provide a quieter and consistently pleasant braking experience, minimizing noise and enhancing overall performance. |
| Price | $56.00 – $310.00 | $24.29 – $308.69 |
| Warranty | covers defects in material and workmanship for 12 months or or 10,000 miles of highway use | 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 EBC and Zimmermann brake parts, there are several key aspects to consider. I’m taking a look at their performance gathered by analyzing multiple customer reviews and feedback:
EBC Brake Parts:
- EBC has received mixed reviews, with some users recommending their products, such as Redstuff pads and slotted rotors.
- The Yellowstuff pads were even noted as better than stock pads for a 2022 WRX.
- For a Golf GTI, Stoptech slotted rotors and EBC Redstuff pads were suggested as a good upgrade.
- However, some users reported issues, like brake pads making screeching noises, and pads not fitting OEM sport calipers despite compatibility checks.
Zimmermann Brake Parts:
- Zimmermann has generally received positive feedback from users.
- Zimmermann Z coated rotors are recommended for daily use and street driving.
- Their drilled rotors are higher-end OEM replacements that produce less brake dust and have a stronger bite.
- Many users have pointed out their durability, with one user having used them for almost 2 years without issues.
- Another user highlighted Zimmermann’s zinc coating keeps the hats rust-free and the presence of vents on the front rotors.
In summary, while EBC offers some well-liked products, they also have a few reported issues.
Zimmermann, on the other hand, appears to be a more reliable choice based on user feedback, with their products being praised for their quality and durability.
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:
| EBC Rotors Prices⁽¹⁾ | Zimmermann Rotors Prices⁽²⁾ | |
| Lowest Priced Rotors | EBC RK Series Premium Plain 1-Piece Rear Brake Rotors go from $58.19 | Zimmermann Coat-Z Brake Rotor goes from $19.97 |
| Most Expensive Rotors | EBC Fully-Floating Slotted 2-Piece Front Brake Rotors go for $1,581.80 | Zimmermann Formula-Z Front Passenger Side Brake Rotor goes for $1,072.23 |
Alternatively, you can see the brake pads prices for EBC and Zimmermann below:
| EBC Brake Pads Prices⁽¹⁾ | Zimmermann Brake Pads Prices⁽²⁾ | |
| Lowest Priced Pads | EBC Ultimax2 OEM Replacement Rear Brake Pads go from $31.67 | Zimmermann Front Disc Brake Pad Set go from $19.68 |
| Most Expensive Pads | EBC RP-X Racing Front Brake Pads go for $438.72 | 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.
EBC
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ EBC brake pads and rotors are often recommended for their solid performance | ❌ Some users have reported that EBC brake pads produce a lot of dust and noise |
| ✔ Range of options | |
| ✔ Good value |
Zimmermann
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ German production quality | ❌ Rare durability issues |
| ✔ Coat Z Coated Brake Discs | |
| ✔ Positive customer reviews |
Which Is the Better Brand Overall?
Looking at the feedback, I would lean towards Zimmermann as the overall better pick.
Despite EBC’s range of options and value, issues with noise and dust give Zimmermann the edge.
Zimmermann’s consistent positive reviews, German production quality, and Coat Z Coated Brake Discs demonstrate its superior performance and quality, making it my choice for the better brakes brand.