This Vantage model is a clear combination of impactful performance, adorable design, and a driving experience that stays with you for life. But every car needs good brakes that save your car.
But how do you decide which is the right one for your car, the standard ones or the carbon ceramic brakes? Well, the answer is that the standard ones are good for your regular drives and tours, and the ceramic ones bring the benefit of keeping it cool.
What is your usage? It totally depends upon how you are using the car, and now let’s step ahead and understand in detail which brakes are ideal for your car.
How the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Braking System Works
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage’s braking system is engineered to match the performance of the car. It’s got a strong engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a chassis that’s built up for sporty driving, so the brakes must be able to deliver consistent stopping force in a variety of driving situations.
A typical braking system contains:
- Brake pad
- Brake Disc or Rotors
- Brake callipers
- Fluid brake
- Brake line
- Electronic brake controls
Among these components, brake pads are one of the most frequently changed components as they are subjected to direct contact and wear while braking.
For many owners, the simplest way to keep their brakes working well, without the cost of a full brake system repair, is to upgrade or replace the brake pads.
Standard Aston Martin V8 Vantage Brake Pads Explained
Standard brake pads are designed to give a compromise of performance, comfort, noise, and durability.
They are intended for:
- Everyday Driving
- Cruising the highway
- Touring the weekend
- Hard on-road driving
- Occasionally in performance use
Modern replacement brake pads come in several different compounds for owners to choose from to suit their needs.
Advantages of Standard Brake Pads
Cost-Effective Maintenance
A major advantage of conventional brake pads is that they are cheap.
Carbon-ceramic systems are quite expensive and hard to obtain; fresh brake pads are much cheaper and easier to obtain.
This means they’re perfect for owners who want to keep their V8 Vantage in good shape without spending too much on maintenance.
Great Road Performance
Good quality brake pads give more than adequate stopping force for everyday road use.
Most drivers will notice:
- Strong first braking reaction
- Predictable pedal response
- Dependable performance in varying situations
Comfortable in Daily Driving
Road comfort is the main concern with standard brake pads.
They typically make:
- Less brake noise
- Less vibration
- Easy to operate
That makes them a sensible choice for owners who use their Aston Martin on a regular basis.
Easier to Replace
Routine maintenance items like brake pads can be changed by experienced technicians without major modifications.
Disadvantages of traditional brake pads
Regular brake pads work effectively, but have a few limits when pushed beyond usual driving conditions.
Extreme Heat Reduces Performance
The temperature of conventional brake pads can rise considerably during hard driving or frequent high-speed braking.
This may result in:
- Less effective braking
- Brake fade
- Increased stopping distance
More Wear on Track Usage
The heat and stresses generated in track situations are far greater than those in road driving.
Repeated severe braking sessions can wear out standard brake pads significantly faster.
Brake Dust Production
Some classic brake pad compositions create considerable brake dust, necessitating more regular wheel cleaning.
Understanding Carbon Ceramic Brake Upgrades
Carbon ceramic brakes represent one of the most advanced braking technologies available for performance vehicles.
Originally developed for motorsport uses, carbon ceramic systems are engineered to endure severe temperatures while retaining constant braking performance.
Benefits of Carbon Ceramic Brake Systems
Higher Heat Resistance
The best thing about carbon ceramic brakes is what they can do at high temperatures.
When you’re really pushing hard, carbon ceramic discs remain cool, but conventional brakes may start to have heat problems.
This makes them perfect for:
- Drive tracking
- High-performance use
- Driving in Mountains
- Lots of hard braking
Less Brake Fade
Brake fade is a reduction in braking power owing to excessive heat.
This difficulty is mostly eliminated by carbon ceramic systems that can maintain constant levels of friction at greater temperatures.
Less Unsprung Weight
Carbon ceramic brake discs are much lighter than conventional steel rotors.
Better unsprung weight leads to:
- Response handling
- Function of suspension
- Steering feel
- Driving dynamics at a glance
More Disc Life
Proper usage of carbon ceramic discs means they usually last a good deal longer than conventional steel braking rotors.
There is a higher upfront cost, but certain owners may profit from the long-term durability.
Performance Looks Better
Carbon ceramic brakes also give a cosmetic boost.
Large performance callipers and carbon ceramic discs behind performance wheels give an aggressive look.
Downsides to Carbon Ceramic Brake Upgrades
Carbon ceramic systems, with their benefits, are not the right option for all V8 Vantage owners.
Costlier Up Front
The main disadvantage is the expense.
A complete carbon ceramic conversion can be substantially more expensive than replacing normal brake components.
The upgrade might entail:
- Carbon ceramic discs
- Performance brake pad
- Special hardware
- Installation cost
Not so Good for Daily Driving
Carbon ceramic brakes are for demanding performance circumstances.
For many road drivers, the new potential may never be fully used.
Costly Repairs
These discs are hard-wearing but far more expensive to replace if they are damaged.
Aston Martin V8 Vantage Brake Pads versus Carbon Ceramic
What is Ideal For Aston Martin V8 Vantage Owners?
Well, to begin with, it totally depends on how you use your car.
Apply Standard Brake Pads in the Event:
Your V8 Vantage is driven mostly on public roads.
- You like to drive on weekends and go on tours
- You desire less upkeep
- Rarely do you compete in track events
Premium brake pads provide great performance and reasonable ownership costs for most owners.
If you want Carbon Ceramic Brakes:
- You go to track days on a regular basis
- You drive aggressively in difficult conditions
- You want maximum stopping power
- You seek a boost in performance
For the enthusiast who requires the ultimate in braking ability offered by Aston Martin, carbon ceramic brakes are the perfect choice.
Things to Consider Before Upgrading
Before buying carbon ceramic brakes, ask yourself:
Driving Style
A weekend road driver may not benefit enough from the upgrade to justify the additional cost.
Budget
You should assess the cost of the upgrade versus your actual performance needs.
Use of Vehicle
Carbon ceramic systems benefit track-focused cars more than road cars that are used on a regular basis.
Plans for Long-Term Ownership
Owners expecting to run the V8 Vantage for years to come should weigh the upgrade’s impact on maintenance and resale value.
Maintaining Your Aston Martin V8 Vantage Braking System
The measures are important to take.
Suggested practices:
- Check brake pads often
- Check brake fluid level
- Listen for strange noises
- Timely replacement of worn parts
- Don’t ignore the signs your car gives
FAQs ( Frequently Asked Questions )
Which amongst these is the better one: carbon ceramics or the standard ones?
The standard ones are good for your regular drives and tours, and the ceramic ones are good as they don’t heat up.
How often does it need to be replaced?
It is said that usually between 20,000 and 40,000 miles, it might need a replacement.
Are carbon ceramic brakes worth the cost?
They are worth considering for owners who routinely drive on track, or want maximum braking performance.
Are carbon ceramic brakes longer lasting?
When properly used, carbon ceramic discs can outlast normal steel rotors. But the costs of replacing them are far higher.
Best Brake Pads For an Aston Martin V8 Vantage?
The finest brake pads for you rely on your driving habits. High-temp compounds are okay for track guys. Performance street pads are the way to go for the road-biased owners.
Conclusion
High-quality brake pads are great for regular driving and fun on the road, and carbon ceramic systems offer even better performance for driving on the track.
Aston Martin Parts Direct is an established expert in Aston Martin parts, supplying top-quality components to enable customers to maintain, repair and enhance their V8 Vantage with confidence.
Searching for the correct brake components for your Aston Martin? Call us now at Aston Martin Parts Direct, and we’ll help you locate the right solution for your car.