[mann]

this is an ancient thread but regardless there's some info that should be cleared up.

Braille rates the batteries differently then Deka, it is a common practice. Generally sustained vs peak cranking amps is the issue IIRC. Deka rates the lower end.

Durability wise the small batteries will do perfectly fine for smaller engines (i4 2l or similar) but you must keep them on a battery tender or drive frequently. They will not hold a charge for long especially in the cold.

The weight tradeoff is worth it to many. If you need a battery that will start in the winter and doesn't need maintenance then a 45lb standard battery is what you want.

FYI Deka (aka east penn) is a battery manufacturer and makes batteries for countless brands, not just braille. What you pay for with braille is obviously the name, the advertising, whatever warranty they provide, and the testing they might or might not have done to determine which ones work well on which cars/for what purpose.