The Nissan GT-R R35 is a benchmark for automotive engineering, yet its substantial curb weight places immense stress on the braking system during spirited driving or track sessions. To address this, Stillen collaborated with AP Racing to develop a Carbon-Ceramic Matrix (CCM) upgrade specifically for this platform. This article explores the technical details of the Stillen upgrade and how it transforms the stopping performance of the Nissan GT-R.
Contents
- Key Context
- Structured Analysis
- Practical Checklist
- CTA
- FAQ
- Source Notes
- Professional Disclaimer
Key Context
Stillen has a long history of tuning Nissan vehicles, and their partnership with AP Racing resulted in one of the first dedicated aftermarket carbon ceramic brake packages for the R35 GT-R. Historically, carbon ceramic technology was reserved for high-end European supercars. This upgrade package brought that technology to the GT-R aftermarket, focusing on heat capacity and a significant reduction in unsprung weight to improve both handling and braking consistency.
Structured Analysis
1. The Stillen and AP Racing Collaboration
The Stillen CCM upgrade is built upon AP Racing’s extensive experience in professional motorsport. By utilizing a Carbon-Ceramic Matrix material, the kit provides a rotor that is significantly more resistant to thermal fade than the standard cast-iron discs found on the Nissan GT-R. This partnership ensured that the rotor geometry and mounting hardware were specifically tuned for the R35's high-torque environment.
2. Rotor Dimensions and Fitment
The Stillen upgrade typically features 400mm front rotor assemblies. This represents a 20mm increase in diameter over the original 380mm iron discs found on early 2009–2011 Nissan GT-R models. The larger diameter provides a greater swept area and increased leverage for the brake calipers, which contributes to improved stopping power. Despite the larger size, the rotors are designed to integrate with the vehicle's existing brake architecture, though specific spacers or brackets are usually required to accommodate the increased diameter.
3. Weight Reduction Benefits
One of the most significant advantages of the Stillen carbon ceramic upgrade is the reduction in mass. Standard 380mm iron rotors are notoriously heavy; the Stillen 400mm CCM rotors can reduce the weight of the brake assembly by nearly 50% compared to the stock iron units. This reduction in unsprung weight directly improves suspension response, steering feel, and rotational inertia, allowing the Nissan GT-R to accelerate and decelerate more efficiently.
4. Thermal Management and Durability
Carbon-Ceramic Matrix rotors are designed to operate at much higher temperatures than iron without warping or losing friction coefficients. For Nissan GT-R owners who participate in track days, this means more consistent pedal feel throughout a session. Additionally, under normal road conditions, CCM rotors are known for their extreme longevity, often lasting the lifetime of the vehicle if not subjected to aggressive track use.
Practical Checklist
- Wheel Clearance: Verify that your wheels have sufficient barrel clearance for the 400mm rotors, as they are 20mm larger than the original 380mm equipment.
- Pad Compatibility: Carbon ceramic rotors require specific brake pad compounds designed for CCM surfaces; never use pads intended for iron rotors.
- Bedding-In Procedure: Follow the manufacturer’s specific bedding-in instructions to ensure a proper transfer layer of pad material onto the rotor surface.
- Hardware Inspection: When installing the Stillen/AP Racing kit, inspect the caliper mounting bolts and brake lines for any signs of wear.
- Usage Profile: Consider your driving habits; while CCM rotors are excellent for heat management, they require reaching a certain operating temperature to provide peak performance.
Recommended Next Step
Looking to plan the right brake package for performance brake buyers? Browse our carbon ceramic brake catalog to compare vehicle-specific carbon ceramic rotor and upgrade options.
FAQ
Does the Stillen CCM kit require new calipers?
No, the Stillen and AP Racing upgrade is typically designed to work with the factory Nissan GT-R Brembo calipers, using relocation brackets to accommodate the larger 400mm rotor diameter.
How much weight do these rotors save on a Nissan GT-R?
The Stillen carbon ceramic rotors generally reduce the weight of the braking assembly by approximately 50% compared to the factory iron rotors, which is a significant reduction in unsprung mass.
Are 400mm rotors compatible with the stock 20-inch GT-R wheels?
Generally, yes. Most factory 20-inch wheels for the R35 GT-R will clear the 400mm Stillen/AP Racing rotors, but it is always recommended to check clearance if using aftermarket wheels with different barrel designs.
Can I use my existing brake pads with Stillen carbon ceramic rotors?
No. You must use brake pads specifically formulated for use with carbon ceramic materials to avoid damaging the rotor surface and to ensure proper braking performance.
Explore fitment-focused options here: carbon ceramic brake catalog.
Source Notes
- Source: https://www.z1motorsports.com/brake-packages/stillen/stillen-nissan-gt-r35-carbon-ceramic-matrix-brake-upgrade-p-4868.html
- Source: https://www.amsmotorsports.com/ap-racing-stillen-carbon-ceramic-brake-kit.html
Professional Disclaimer
All third-party trademarks, brand names, and model names are the property of their respective owners. References are for identification only and do not imply affiliation or endorsement. Performance figures and specifications are based on manufacturer-provided data and may vary based on vehicle condition and installation quality.