For drivers who value performance and quality, Brembo is very often the first preference when it comes to brake discs. The Italian brake specialist offers both Brembo Xtra drilled and Brembo Max slotted discs. Both of which offer considerable advantages over standard discs and make a good up-sell option for motor factors. However, these discs also have different performance characteristics and the Brembo Technical Team have put together a quick guide to explain these.

Brembo says that compared to a standard disc, both drilled and slotted discs ensure better grip, better dispersion of gases and more efficient performance on wet roads. They do however have different attributes when it comes to performance, aesthetics, heat dissipation, crack resistance and additional functionality.

With regards to the look of the discs, both have a more distinct look often favoured by enthusiasts compared to the traditional smooth disc. The drilled disc is immediately recognisable because of the hole pattern. The slotted disc, on the other hand has distinctive groves. Brembo says this means the drilled disc has a more aggressive and sporty look sometimes favoured by drivers. 

Both the drilled and the grooved discs have been specifically designed to offer improved heat dissipation than the standard discs. Both perform exceptionally well, but because of the holes, the Xtra drilled discs offer the ultimate edge.

To prevent the risk of cracking on the disc surface Brembo conducts numerous bench and road tests in order to meet the performance and heat-mechanical stress needs of the braking system in the widest range of operating conditions. This prevents the risk of cracks forming in both the drilled and slotted discs.  However in very extreme operating conditions, like those found in racing, the slotted disc offer superior mechanical resistance than the drilled disc.

With regard to wear indication, the Brembo Max slotted discs provide the user with a self-assessment of their use through the grooves. When one of them is no longer visible, the disc should be replaced because it has exceeded the minimum legal values and no longer provides the original performance.

Finally in terms of performance, compared to a standard disc, from the initial braking phases, both the Brembo Xtra drilled discs and the Brembo Max slotted discs ensure greater grip and more responsive and efficient performance of the braking system. Thanks to the discontinuity of the surface (created by the holes or the grooves), both the discs "clean” the pad in the braking phase, regenerating the friction material. Both disrupt the layer of water in the event of driving in the rain and guarantee dissipation of the gases (fading effect) during the most extreme braking. The performance differences between the two solutions are therefore minimal and the operating advantages are practically identical.

Brembo says both Xtra and Max discs are excellent solutions for those who desire a sporty driving experience without sacrificing the comfort and durability of the brake discs and pads. Brembo Xtra discs are more likely to be the best fit for those focusing on the aesthetic appeal, since drilled discs are synonymous with sport for many enthusiasts.

Brembo Max discs, on the other hand, are a better fit for those focused on substance, since the slots, besides being more resistant to cracking are also a valid tool when evaluating whether it's time to replace the disc.