ULW vs GCC+ vs M26 vs ColorX

[GhOsT1321]

I have had a theory which is: If you apply a polish prior to applying a wax, it makes the differences between waxes much less noticeable in terms of visual aesthetics; in particular, darkening.



Today I tested that; as follows below.


I decided to compare ULW, GCC+, M26 aide by side, and decided to throw ColorX into the mix as I have not used it yet and was eager for an excuse to use it.



Ultimate Polish was worked into the top of my trunk two times, and once into my spoiler. The top of the trunk and the spoiler were clayed as well.
I then taped off the panel and applied ULW to the left portion of the trunk, GCC+ to the middle portion, and M26 to the rightward portion. ColorX was applied to the entire spoiler.

All of the aforementioned waxes/sealants were applied twice. The first time, using a small amount of product and wiped off as soon as they passed the swipe test, aside from ULW, which was given 5 minutes after application. The second coat of product consisted of more product than the first coat, which was given 20 minutes to dry, and then all were wiped off.



The following pictures were taken approximately one hour after the first application of wax/sealant.

Note: The lighting is not great, however, it accurately portrays the visual difference that I saw with my naked eye. Also, on the ULW side, there are some deep scratches and dents form when a tree branch hit my car during severe storm.



ULW vs GCC+ vs ColorX



ULW vs GCC+ no tape



GCC+ vs M26 vs ColorX



GCC+ vs M26 no tape



Comparison of all




There was a small difference between the four. ColorX had the smallest amount of darkening, but reduced scratches. M26 hid a lot of scratches, dried the quickest, wiped on and off the easiest, and darkened to the effect that ULW did. ULW hid scratches the least, but darkened the paint second most, tied with M26, but it's reflection seems to have higher clarity than any of the others. GCC+ seemes to darken the paint the most but by a minute amount.

If I were to rank the protectants in terms of clarity and darkness, it would be:
GCC+ > ULW > M26 > ColorX

In my experience; when using a polish first such as Ultimate Polish that was used in this instance, any following wax only makes a small difference in appearance.

[BillE]

Re: ULW vs GCC+ vs M26 vs ColorX

Thank you for the comparison, this should help out some of the folks.

One thing about M-26, is (if I remember correctly) has the highest 'reflective rating' of any of the waxes.

One more thing, as you pointed out, the prep work is the true key to the end results.

Good job...

Bill

[Ravi_1992]

Re: ULW vs GCC+ vs M26 vs ColorX

Awesome Comparison dude!
I can't tell the difference between the ULW vs GCC+ picture, but i can when it comes to the GCC+ vs M26 no tape picture; GCC+ looks a lot darker and deeper than M26.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: ULW vs GCC+ vs M26 vs ColorX

Nice test!! It can be soooo hard to capture the subtle differences in appearance when taking pictures, but your descriptions are well done and clearly point out the subtle differences one can expect when using different waxes. Now, it should be noted that much of the darkening already achieved due to the application of Ultimate Polish would be negated by the cleaners in ColorX removing some of that polish, which probably accounts for that product rating last in your assessment.