Helmets are built to a spec (either SNELL or DOT) the difference is that DOT doesn't test, Snell does. After passing their tests to keep your certification they randomly pull your helmet off the production line and make sure it still meets their requirements.
The Snell tests are very extensive. They include abrasion resistance, rod puncture, and a bunch of other stuff that is measured in the transfer of energy to your head. Snell will take a harder impact and stay intack. but that's not what kills you it's the acelleration and decelleration of your brain that fries it. You can only move jello so fast and stop it so quick before it breaks the jell.
Motorcyclist Magazine did an EXTENSIVE study a couple of years ago on accident results. What it found was that folks wearing DOT helmets were coming out of accidents better than the Snell. The article hinted that although the Snell helmets were better able to absorb the impact they were poorer at the acelleration/decelleration due to the stringent build specs.
Ok last thing to think about. A large percentage of deaths from helmet wearing cyclists comes from broken necks. Not from the skull injury. I would think a large part of that comes from the weight of the helmet. Remember, we're acellerating/decellerating. It's much easier to stop a 3 lb object than a 4 lb object given the same speed.
To sum it up. There is no significant protection between the fiberglass and carbon fiber in a real world accident. There is a big difference in weight.
I wear a Full Face Fiberglass cuz I'm cheap. A full face is more likely to break your collar bone in an accident but at least the bone will slow things down and hopefully not break my neck.
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