When it comes to tuning and performance upgrades for Ford vehicles, particularly the Focus ST and Focus RS, two big names often come up: COBB and Mountune. Both of these companies offer RMM (Rear Motor Mount) upgrades designed to improve vehicle performance by reducing engine movement, enhancing shifting precision, and improving overall driving dynamics. Choosing between COBB and Mountune can be tricky because both have strong reputations and loyal followings. I’ve personally tried both on different setups, so here’s a breakdown to help you decide which RMM might suit your needs best.
COBB vs. Mountune RMM: Key Differences
1. Design and Build Quality
- COBB RMM: The COBB Rear Motor Mount is known for its robust design with an emphasis on durability and performance. Made from high-quality billet aluminum, it uses a custom polyurethane bushing that is designed to significantly reduce engine movement while still providing a level of comfort that doesn’t feel too harsh for daily driving. COBB’s RMM is engineered to provide a balance between rigidity and comfort, which is crucial for both spirited driving and everyday use.
- Mountune RMM: The Mountune RMM is designed with a similar focus on improving shift feel and reducing engine movement. It’s also constructed from high-quality materials, featuring billet aluminum with a more refined polyurethane bushing. Mountune’s bushing is softer compared to COBB’s, which means it’s designed to minimize NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness), making it a bit more comfortable for daily drivers who want some performance enhancement without the roughness.
2. Performance and Driving Feel
- COBB RMM: With the COBB RMM, the improvement in handling and shifting is immediately noticeable. The stiffer bushing reduces engine flex significantly, resulting in more precise shifts and better traction during hard acceleration. This can lead to a slightly more aggressive feel when driving, which is ideal for those who love pushing their cars to the limit on twisty roads or at the track. However, some users might notice an increase in NVH, especially at lower RPMs or when idling.
- Mountune RMM: The Mountune RMM is designed with a slightly softer bushing to strike a better balance between performance and comfort. While it still significantly reduces engine movement and improves shift feel, it doesn’t transmit as much vibration into the cabin as the COBB RMM does. This makes it a favorite among enthusiasts who daily drive their Focus ST or RS and want to maintain a level of civility without sacrificing too much on performance.
3. Installation and Compatibility
- COBB RMM: The COBB RMM is relatively straightforward to install and comes with all the necessary hardware. It’s compatible with a wide range of Ford models, particularly the Focus ST and Focus RS, and doesn’t require any additional modifications. The installation process is typically quick, taking about 30 minutes to an hour with basic tools.
- Mountune RMM: Similarly, Mountune’s RMM is easy to install and is designed as a direct replacement for the factory mount. It also comes with all the needed hardware and can be installed in about the same time as the COBB RMM. The fitment is precise, ensuring there are no unwanted vibrations or issues once installed.
4. Pricing
- COBB RMM: COBB’s RMM is generally positioned in the mid-to-high price range, reflecting its high-quality build and performance focus. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other options on the market, the balance of durability and performance makes it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts who prioritize handling and driving dynamics.
- Mountune RMM: Mountune’s RMM is priced similarly to COBB’s, sometimes slightly higher due to its focus on minimizing NVH while still delivering improved performance. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for a high-quality, refined solution that provides performance benefits without too much compromise on comfort.
5. NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness)
- COBB RMM: One of the common feedback points on COBB’s RMM is that it does increase NVH, particularly when the engine is under load or at idle. While this is a minor inconvenience for many enthusiasts who value performance, it’s worth noting for those who are more sensitive to these changes.
- Mountune RMM: Mountune RMM is designed to offer a reduction in engine movement with minimal NVH increase. It is ideal for those who want a sportier feel without significantly affecting the daily drivability of their vehicle. It strikes a balance that makes it a great option for a daily driver with occasional spirited driving.
6. Customer Support and Warranty
- COBB: COBB Tuning is well-known for its customer support and provides a solid warranty on its products. The company stands behind the quality of its RMM, and they offer helpful installation guides, videos, and technical support for any issues that may arise.
- Mountune: Mountune also has a strong reputation for customer support and product quality. They offer a similar level of warranty protection on their RMM, and their customer service is generally praised for being responsive and helpful. Mountune’s products are designed to meet or exceed OEM standards, and this is reflected in their support structure.
Conclusion: Which RMM Should You Choose?
Choosing between COBB and Mountune RMM depends on your driving style, preference for comfort versus performance, and sensitivity to NVH:
- Choose COBB RMM if:
- You are looking for a more aggressive driving experience with better shift precision.
- You don’t mind a bit of increased NVH in exchange for improved performance.
- You prioritize durability and performance in spirited driving and track conditions.
- Choose Mountune RMM if:
- You want to maintain comfort while still getting a noticeable improvement in handling and shift feel.
- You’re more sensitive to NVH and want to minimize cabin vibration and noise.
- You prefer a balanced upgrade that works well for daily driving with occasional spirited driving.
From my experience, if you’re someone who enjoys regular track days or very spirited driving, COBB is a great choice for its robust performance. However, if your Focus ST or RS is primarily a daily driver and you still want a performance edge without too much sacrifice on comfort, Mountune is a fantastic option that provides a refined balance.