After re-assembling our 996 we performed some brake pad testing at VIR and Barber Motorsports Park. Below is a list of the pads we tested in descending order from least aggressive to most aggressive:
Carbotech XP8. We used Nankang CR-S V2's and Bridgeston RE-71rs's with these pads. These pads are ideal for short sprints such as Hillclimb, very aggressive backroad driving, or extended Autocross. We actually preferred the bite of theses pads for street driving too but did notice some noise in cooler temperatures. These pads did OK during HPDE driving. We found the first 4 laps at VIR full course to do well with these pads, but after that braking ability began to drop off and we did notice some light smearing on our Girodisc rotors. Our next test might include Carbotech's XP10 or even XP12.
Pagid RS 29. We used 200tw RE-71rs's with these pads. These performed well as an intermediate level HPDE pad. Bite is decent and consistent from beginning to end of session. We did find ourselves yearning for more bite with R comp tires - the RSL1 is claimed to be about 7% more aggressive and might be on the table to test next season.
Hawk DTC-60. We used Dunlop Direzza ZIII tires with these pads. The DTC-60 is like eating at your favorite chain restaurant, you always know what you are going to get and consistency is good. We like the DTC-60 for their lower price point and consistency. Complaints against these pads are for those with nice wheels- the dust has been known to bake onto wheels especially if run in the rain. Our solution to this is more stringent wheel cleaning including the barrels.
Ferodo DS3.12. We used Hoosier R7 and Hankook C52 slicks with these pads. These were the most aggressive pads we tested on the 996. These pads were very consistent from beginning of session to end. The pads are aggressive enough to activate ice mode in unweighted turns such as turn 11 at Barber, then again the 25 year old ABS system on our 996 is not the most advanced. If we had to choose a HPDE pad for all situations, we would choose this one, but only with a 200 treadwear tire (or Michelin Cup 2's). Wear was very good, with around 45% wear (4.5mm) after 6 full track days. Please do not expect similar wear rates with your vehicles- these are track, driver, and tire dependent.
Here is a video where we discuss the re-assembly of our 996, some small blurb on the pad testing performed, and a 2:07.53 lap on VIR full course. Keep in mind our 996 is still AWD. Stay tuned for our winter project video as we build our new 996 Aero Kit for 2025 HPDE and Hillclimb!