Pick this up off of Autopia.... Interesting.

Megs vs Zymol.

Last night, I witnessed a comparison between Meguiars and Zymol products. This was done in a detailing centre that is also an authorised Zymol reseller.

Car: BMW 530i with original black paint.

Panel used: Entire was car was done in NXT + Megs No 26 after a lengthy surface prep.

Paint prep: Megs Diamond Cut, Megs DACP, Megs Speed Glaze, Megs Quick Detailer in the whole car.

Left side of hood: 1 x Megs NXT
1 x Megs No 26 Carnauba wax.
Megs Quick Detailer

Right side of hood: Zymol Vintage Carnauba Wax
Zymol's Field Glaze (similar to Megs Quick
Detailer).

Many people would consider it unfair and illogical to compare Megs with an exotic high-end wax such as Zymol Vintage. But let me enlighten you with the results.

Megs products were applied by Meg's trainer, sales manager, myself and a fellow BMW detailing enthusiast. Zymol products were applied by the detailing centre's personnel who use Zymol exclusively everyday.

Observation:
At a glance, there is no significant difference at all!!!
I find that shocking because I had very high expectations from Zymol. After all, Zymol costs so much more than Megs!

However, after a close and slow inspection, the Zymol side seemed to appear very slightly darker and that could given an impression of richness. Meguiar's side appeared a little more reflective, showed off the metallic flakes better but not as dark. The reflection of the overhead gas-discharge lights in the detailing bay were slightly crisper than Zymol's reflections. Both felt equally as slick.

I was surprised because I expected such an expensive high-end Zymol product to totally thrash Meguairs outright and impress with a wet look, deep gloss. However, it appeared the same!!! So, I can safely say that Meguiars products can "hold itself" against more expensive and exotic waxes! Don't be conned by the exorbitant prices of certain brandnames and psyche yourself into believing that expensive inevitably means superiority.

Overall, I expected a much more pronounced wet and deep look from Megs and Zymol. Based on my experience in using Zaino, I am confident 2 layers of Z2+ZFX would have thrashed Megs and Zymol. Anyway, it depends on what results you're aiming to achieve. For me, the gloss in black paint is the 1st thing that catches my attention. Only then, will I look further and admire it's depth. Without a dazzling wet look with lots of reflections, the "wow" factor is just not there, especially with dark colours.

 

While I wholeheartedly like Meguiar's products (for the most part), they do make a few 'dud' products in my opinion. Further, they're not the only show in town... Lots of *GREAT* products out there from an ARRAY of vendors. The key is to find something that you like, be it Meg's, Z, Menzerna, Adams, Mothers, 4-Star, Collinite, etc.. etc.. etc.., and use it.

Results, when it comes to car care stuff, are VERY individually subjective. One guy may *love* a product whereas the next guy may *despise* that product. Opinions are like a-holes... every individual has one!

-RP-

 

I have noticed the subjectiveness RockPick. Similar to audio systems.

I thought the article was interesting in the fact I would have been thinking the same thing about Zymol products as did the Autopia poster.

Personally I haven't used enough detail products to be a good judge other than Megs #20. One reason, I haven't owned a vehicle worthy.

 

Very good write up. I am pleased to see that you posted in a very matter of fact way; showing every aspect and stage along the line. And very good knowledge you've provided. Another aspect I liked was the # of people involved and their training background, showing that each knows their products and it's best use-- demonstrating to me that the results are accurate.

Thanks for a good write up (and RP hit the nail on the head about opinions--although I'm surprised he left out Poorboys... )

 

Thank you f-150sport03....I thought it was a very well written article also.

I like Megs. What I've used so far has done what it said it should. The Gold Medallion paint cleaner and wax combo I've used before and liked it really well. Then I found out about their #20 paint sealer and whoa!! On black paint it really makes my truck shine. I bet that Porter Cable DA would make her shine even better. I also like their 1-800-hot-line. Their customer service really takes the time to help a fella out with any questions.

I hate to be labeled a brand loyalist considering if there is something better for at or near the same cost, I'm going to purchase that product. I'd have to agree, competition in this market share is a beautiful thing.