Corvette C5 Brake Pad - Less Sway, More Brake

Our "Pewter Rocket" C5 recently received a big jump in horsepower, thanks to our friends at MTI Racing. The added thrust underscored something we'd long suspected: A C5 with the Z51 handling option is a very stable platform with 345 hp under the hood, but when you're pushing over 550 hp at the crank, your suspension performance suddenly becomes critical. Fortunately, MTI Racing's owner, Reese Cox, has spent a lot of time at racetracks driving Corvettes. Knowing this, we decided to tap his experience and learn how to improve the Rocket's braking and handling.

Reese first suggested replacing our factory Z51 antisway bars with Addco's tubular 35mm front and 25mm rear pieces, which would provide more precise steering through the corners. Even better, their tubular construction makes them lighter than the stockers. Additional benefits include increased stability at higher speeds and superior emergency maneuvering. The Addco units retail for $312.50 for both the front and rear. MTI Racing will powdercoat and install a set on your car for $800.

To ensure the Rocket stopped as well as it cornered and accelerated, Reese suggested installing a complete set of Hawk ceramic brake pads. These high-performance pads provide extra braking power along with reduced fade, dust, and noise. The pads retail for $80 (front) and $70 (rear), and they can be purchased through MTI Racing and other Hawk dealers. MTI will even install the pads for $160 if you don't feel like getting your hands dirty.

The Addco bars were a perfect fit, and installation went smoothly. On the road the car felt very precise, with a flick of the wheel bringing significantly sharpened response. The upgraded brakes have excellent feel and really haul down the Rocket when asked. In fact, the new pads grab so well that sometimes the ABS has to work extra hard just to keep up with the added grip. As a benefit, the noise and brake dust these pads produce under hard use is minimal. What little dust the Hawk ceramics give off is light gray, making it less visible than standard brake dust when it collects on the wheels.

All in all, the Addco and Hawk pieces yielded noticeably improved handling and braking performance for a minimal investment. Consider these easy upgrades a smart modification for any hard-driven C5.