bclark

I would like to upgrade the brakes on my '71 914-6 and was wondering if anyone had any such experience. I have already upgraded the brake hoses at the corners but would like to know if there is a front caliper swap-out that would help me achieve the goal.

I appreciate any help you can offer.

BC

Zeke

Search "BMW" here and on other 914 sites. Pelican Parts BBS and 914 CLUB USA are 2 big sites. I don't know that the pad area is that much bigger than the stock. And one fellow swapped in some Volvo calipers. Depends on what rotors you have now. You don't say if you car is a factory six.

Joe Ricard

Since you have a 6 with vented rotors you will have more choice. there are BMW calipers with 3" spacing that are used on thicker vented rotors. this would be a good upgrade. What you need to figure out is what are you trying to do with the car street or track

bclark

Thanks for the advice. To clarify, mine is a stock '71 914-6 (not a conversion of any kind) and I have no intention of ever racing it. I am planning some upgrades to the engine and I would like to improve the brakes in anticipation of the extra power.

I hadn't really thought about whether I wanted larger pad surface area or multiple pistons or whatever. I am simply looking to benefit from anyone's previous experience in upgrading the brakes.

I really do not want to create a hybrid by using calipers from another marque. I think I would prefer to stick with Porsche parts. I do not really push the limits of the brakes very often, but when you need it you want to have it. I hope this describes my situation a little better.

Joe Ricard

ATE brakes are ATE brakes doesn't matter if they come off a 914/4 914/6 or BMW 320i. If you don't know what to look for by taking the wheel off and measuring no one would ever know.

as far as pad size the pads of beemer calipers are the same swept area as 911S. However you can't put 911S calipers on your 914/6 spindles. different bolt spacing. 3" vs. 3.5"

Anything bigger and you will be seriously increasing unsprung wieght.

bclark

I get it now, thanks. I will search here on BMW as suggested and see what I come up with.

You mention specifically the 320i. I assume this is the BMW with the proper bolt spacing? Do all production years of 320i have the same calipers up front?

I really appreciate the help.

Joe Ricard

I must not have been paying attention. 320i calipers are for 914/4 cars. I think it is the 325 BMW series for the vented rotor cars.