New Product: AP Racing by Essex Competition Brake Kits for Chevrolet Corvette C4

AP Racing by Essex Competition Brake Kits for C4 Corvette 1988-1996

At Essex Parts, we’re always thrilled to bring motorsport-focused brake solutions to platforms that can truly benefit from them. The Chevrolet Corvette C4 is definitely one of those cars, with aging factory equipment designed in the 1980's needing all the help it can get before heavy track use, especially with modern sticky tires. This application was yet another perfect candidate for AP Racing's trusty CP8350 calipers paired with 325x32mm 2-piece floating discs—a combination with an extensive track record across several high-performance vehicles, including the subsequent C5 Corvette (click for customer review).

Side notes: this is our first CP8350 kit with black AP Racing logos instead of the traditional yellow. Aside from improving the color/finish durability over time, this aesthetic update complements the black anodized aluminum on our disc hats and brackets rather well. Also, as we await some final pieces to come in, these kits are available for pre-order at this time. We will update the listing with an ETA once available.

Key Features:

• Upgrade to much larger and thicker 2-piece full-floating J Hook Discs with fixed aluminum calipers
• Features AP Racing CP8350 four piston calipers proven on the C5 and C6, rally cars, late models, and many other applications
• 325 x 32mm 70 vane AP Racing discs with a 30% increase in swept area over the OE 305 x 19.5mm (12" x 0.76") discs
• Very minimal weight difference (3 to 4 lbs. per side) vs. the standard OE 12" brake system despite size/thickness increase
• Clears popular C5 Z06 wheels without a spacer
• Every component designed to resist the heat of extended track sessions
• Pistons sized properly to allow for seamless integration with OEM master cylinder and ABS system
• Designed to work with OE rear brakes
• Note- Due to increased brake torque over stock, we strongly recommend using Ferodo Racing DS1.11 as your baseline pad compound in most situations, rather than DS3.12. If you'd like to discuss pad options to suit your exact modifications (especially big aero, slick tires, etc.), please contact the Essex Sales team.

A Track-Proven Caliper Solution

The CP8350 is a true racing caliper designed to deliver highly-consistent performance under demanding conditions. Its design emphasizes rigidity, even load distribution, and reliability—exactly what’s needed for serious track driving. On the C4, that translates into:

• Firm and more consistent pedal feel
• Predictable modulation at the limit
• Confidence under repeated braking

This is a caliper built to handle hard use under motorsport conditions—not just for one or two stops, but sustained performance over time, when it counts.

Race-Winning Two-Piece Disc Technology

The proven 325x32mm two-piece floating J Hook disc used in this system is utilized across a range of our kit applications, due to its ability to manage heat and stress effectively. Key advantages include:

• Excellent thermal capacity for repeated heavy braking
• Full-floating design that allows proper expansion under heat
• Reduced stress and distortion compared to one-piece discs
• Serviceability with replaceable iron friction rings

By allowing the iron ring to expand independently from the aluminum hat, a floating design helps maintain disc stability and reduces the likelihood of cracking under extreme conditions.

Designed for Demanding Use

This system is built for drivers who actually use their cars—on track, at speed, and under sustained load. It delivers the consistency required for:

• HPDE / track days
• Time attack
• Club racing

The goal isn’t just more braking power—it’s repeatable, reliable performance session after session.

Why the C4 Needs This Upgrade

The C4 Corvette remains a highly capable chassis, but its original braking system reflects the limitations of its era. Modern tires and aero upgrades can quickly push those components beyond their capabilities, leading to more maintenance and/or cool downs in the paddock, which equals less seat time on the race track.

Upgrading to our AP Racing by Essex 325mm Competition Brake Kit delivers:

• Increased thermal capacity vs stock
• Much greater braking consistency
• Improved driver confidence
• Performance that matches modern grip levels

Unlock the Full Potential

The C4 has always been a great foundation for a high-performance track car. Given the right braking system upgrade, it becomes far more capable and rewarding to drive at the limit. With the AP Racing by Essex Competition Brake Kit, you’re equipping your Corvette with a system designed to perform where it matters most—on track, under pressure, lap after lap.

When you’re ready to elevate your Vette's braking performance to a new level, the team at Essex Parts is ready to help you get there.