My next brake setup for the e53 is: Hawk Performance Ceramic Pads (F & R) combined with Centric Premium High Carbon Cryo Brake rotors (F&R).

I heard only good things about the Hawks - apparently they have a higher stopping power than the Akebonos.
Once I have them installed, I will let you know how it goes.

The e39 has the Akebonos, but if the Hawk perform better, I will switch them out.

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Stable: e92is, e46 M54B25, e83 N52, e53 N62 - sold, e39 M54B30 R.I.P.