Whether you're upgrading for performance, replacing a worn-out factory unit, or building a full-blown race car, understanding the basics of clutches is essential. This guide breaks down the main types of clutches we offer at MAPerformance and helps you decide which one fits your goals.
Full-Face Organic Clutch – XClutch Stage 1/2
Let’s start with the basics: full-face organic clutches. These are typically your Stage 1 or Stage 2 options, ideal for lightly modified street cars. The full disc means complete surface contact, offering smooth engagement and driveability. Most OEM clutches fall under this style, using materials like fiberglass-inlaid organic compounds, sometimes mixed with rubber or metal powders.
If your build includes bolt-ons, minor tuning, and daily driving, this is likely your go-to. It’s smooth, quiet, and reliable—everything you want in a commuter-friendly setup with a little extra bite.
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Sprung 6-Puck Clutch – ACT Stage 3+
Next up is the puck-style clutch, like the ACT 6-puck with a sprung hub and heavy-duty pressure plate. This is usually a ceramic disc designed to handle higher heat and torque. It’s a great choice for someone who’s stepped up their turbo size or increased boost and needs something that can hang.
You’ll feel more pedal pressure and a more abrupt engagement compared to a full-face clutch. It’s still daily-drivable, but less forgiving in stop-and-go traffic. Consider this the entry point to serious power handling.
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Twin Disc Clutch – Exedy
If you're making serious horsepower—think 600+ in an Evo X—you’ll need a multi-plate clutch. Exedy’s twin disc is a perfect example of how modern technology has made these way more drivable than they used to be. Gone are the days of chattering, screechy twins that were impossible in traffic.
Expect moderate pedal effort and some rattle, but these are totally usable in street cars pushing high horsepower. Above 450–500 horsepower, you’re often better off with a twin to ensure durability and consistent engagement under load.
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Lightweight Race Clutch – Tilton Twin Disc
At the far end of the spectrum is the Tilton twin disc—an ultralight race clutch built for high-revving, fast-shifting track cars. You won’t see this in most street builds. It’s harsh, loud, and unforgiving, but unmatched for performance applications where fast engagement and lightweight rotational mass are everything.
These are typically paired with ultra-light flywheels and built to handle 1,500+ horsepower. If you’re not racing competitively, this likely isn’t your lane—but it’s important to know what’s out there.
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Dual vs. Single Mass Flywheels
One common clutch-related question we get is about flywheels. Dual-mass flywheels come stock on many vehicles and are great for comfort. They reduce NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) and provide smooth engagement. However, they’re heavy—and that weight slows down revs and makes shifting feel sluggish.
Switching to a single-mass, lightweight flywheel paired with a sprung clutch disc makes the car feel more alive. It revs faster, shifts sharper, and offers better performance overall—but with a slight tradeoff in comfort and noise.
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Sprung vs. Unsprung Clutch Discs
You’ll also hear the term “sprung” or “unsprung” clutch quite a bit. A sprung hub has a set of springs in the disc to absorb shock when engaging, making it easier on your drivetrain and more comfortable overall. These are standard for street cars.
Unsprung hubs are more common in race setups. They provide sharper engagement but transfer more shock to the transmission, leading to increased wear. That’s why most track builds opt for unsprung, while daily drivers should stick with sprung discs.
Final Thoughts - Shop Clutches at MAPerformance
Every clutch has its place. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it all comes down to your power goals, how you use the car, and your tolerance for comfort vs. performance. If you're unsure where to start or want personalized recommendations, the MAPerformance team is here to help.
Call us, email us, or visit MAPerformance.com to find the right clutch setup for your build. Let’s get your car dialed in.
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