if comparing stock components to aftermarket on the same tires/rims/struts/springs/road conditions. IMHO the upgraded components(rotors/pads/lines/new fluid) allow me to have better control over my braking power. They are more gradually applied and resist fading when they heat up. Even in a panic stop I can modulate the brakes to that magical point where the tires are about to break free of the pavement. I used to have this spongy feeling pedal(stillen pads with factory rotors/lines) that was difficult to modulate on the autoX track. I really notice the difference on wet conditions where my skill(I am not that good, just trying to make a point..hehe) is put to the test. I also locked up my front brakes rather easily, because I could not find that sweet spot, just before the skid.

One more thing. It may be in my head, but the front of my car actually dives a bit more in heavy braking. My factory setup did not dive as much, locked up and then skidded.

Maybe the key to upgraded brakes is better brake modulation equals more stopping power without locking up the tires. I read the latest grassroots magazine with the brake article. I really enjoyed it. I do not believe everything I read, but they had some very good points.

DeanoD
1997RS-NeverTurbo
http://ar.dsm.org