[Snowie]

Right everyone let's clear up some confusion that has been around for the last couple of weeks. The reason I can say the following is because I have just fitted a kit to GP #0881 and also compared things to standard R56 cooper S set up - there have been a few phone calls today and thanks to those who have been involved for their help in getting things clear.

Calipers -
R56
The R56 Sport Brake kit has 54mm Pistons in the callipers and the callipers are painted Red
The R56 S Standard Brakes also have 54 mm Pistons in the callipers and they are not painted.
So on an R56 they are exactly the same except that they are Sports calipers are painted.

Now let's compare to R53
The R53 JCW brakes are also 54 mm Pistons in the calipers and they are painted red.
The difference is in the casting the R56 calipers have extended lugs and the brake hose connection is different.

Discs
The R56 Sport brake kits contains slotted and ventilated discs which are not handed.
They are the same overall dimensions as the standard R56 discs
They are also the same size as the JCW discs for the R53

Pads
All of the pads are the same shape for both R56 Standard R56 Sport brakes and R53 JCW
The difference is compound and price.
When you have Drilled and slotted discs then you have to use the sport pads and also if your car was built before 11/06 you also need to change the rear pads to sport - after 11/06 you do not need to change the rear pads - Source BMW leaflet that comes with the sport brake kit.

Conclusion
The Calliper upgrade is worthless - all you get is Red paint
The Discs and pads are worthwhile doing and you will notice an improvement.


I will update post 1 and correct the data

Later I will post up the overall work today


Note this advice is given without acceptance of any liability on the part of the author - always verify things for your self before making your own informed decision