I'm sure all the hard core polymer users are reading these posts and I hope they are thinking, "to each his own".
I've been hesitant to comment here since I feel that these are such personal choices and a negative comment about a certain product is construed by readers as a negative comment about them. I still don't understand why so many people take car care products so seriously and personal. Hell, the differences between all these elite products we use are so minor they're difficult to quantify. It's mostly our personal perceptions anyway, and perception is tainted by personal bias. When most people make a statement (as opposed to an opinion) about a products performance or ability, that can usually be traced back to the mfr of the product since it ain't like the user/poster did any scientific analysis of product performance. What would be the point, anyway, right?
CARGUY hit on a point which I think is critical to the polymer vs. carnauba debate. One of the beauties of carnauba is its flexibility and forgiveness.
You can put it on thick or thin (for the most part), layer it or not, let it set up or wipe it off immediately, use it as a topper or by itself, use it with pretty much any polish you want without adverse effect or lack of performance.
Carnaubas allow the user to make a mistake.
Carnaubas allow the user to experiment.
Carnaubas allow the user to play and enjoy the process regardless of results.
You don't need to follow detailed instructions.
You don't need to contact the mfr to help with problems.
You don't need a support group or consult online "experts" to get the product to perform.
You don't need to use specific tools and techniques to apply and use.
I've been using Zaino recently. Received some samples from a friend, tried it, then bought the important stuff (Z2, Z5, Z6, Z7, ZFX). Spent about $70 on all that. My car can use a more reflective finish. The paint quality is very good (very little orange peel) but it's a color that can use a little added sparkle.
The one thing that struck me hard was that Zaino has to used *exactly* as directed. No variance, no experimentation, no playing around, no flexibility. As long as
you make the allowances for the product, Zaino will work. But if you deviate ever so slightly, it'll punish you. I don't like that. I don't want a product to punish me for trying something new. I shouldn't have to follow the instructions to the letter to make the product work. The product should allow me to be creative, to be artistic, to be expressive. Zaino takes all that away from the user. For me, it's taking away from the fun and enjoyment of car care. Following rules and orders to the letter is not part of my personality. I tend to view them as guides not barriers. I don't like restrictions. I don't like cages. I'm a person who likes to spread his wings and fly. Or just lay on the couch and watch TV. I don't need proven theories and time-tested formulas and strict order to feel secure in life.
I need to be free. And carnauba sets me free.
Will I keep using the Zaino? Probably. I'll try to follow direction and use it as it was designed. I like the Z6 and Z7 and will keep using them regardless. And someday I'll see what I see and decide if I like the view. Maybe I'll stick with it (I've spent enough money...), maybe I'll go back to Souveran, or maybe I'll try something else.
No one product is right for everyone. Use whatever gives you the most pleasure and freedom and security. Remember, it's supposed to be fun.
/RANT
