Drum vs Disc, Power vs non Power

I'll throw in my $0.02.

My Duster came with 4 wheel, non-power drums in the 10" variety from the factory. They actually worked excellent when they were on the car for what they were. The first stop or two were fine as they had no trouble overpowering the 195-70R14 tires that were on the car.

In 2002, I swapped the rear axle to an 8.25 with 10x2.5 LBP drums in the rear and promptly added the standard 73-76 LBP disk setup with slider calipers (they are the larger 2.75" pistons) and 10.87" rotors. I put the manual MC on for this with the stock 1 1/32 iron MC and added an adjustable proportioning valve. I was immediately able to test this and missed a deer by probably 3 feet. The car did stop better, however, for that single stop, I think it was improved mostly by the much larger 225-60R15 tires I was able to run all the way around...they are much harder to lock up. The disks had some influence for sure though.

Just this past weekend, I changed the front brakes to the 11.75" setup and some braided stainless brake hoses. This braking system is absolutely fantastic. Nice modulation and very strong, repeatable braking performance. Its about as good as my new car. I still run the same size tires, but I have some grippier BFG G-force Sports now.

I feel that there is not any need for power brakes unless that is your preference. If you think the pedal is too stiff, run the smaller MC (15/16" IIRC).

The most important thing for braking performance overall is tires. Disk brakes are far more repeatable and do not fade.

I would not own the car without the wider tires and the BBP brakes at this point anymore. Too many idiots on the road. Even if you don't want to go to that level, make sure you install an adjustable proportioning valve so the rears don't lock up first. These cars seem to have a tenancy to do that even when stock.

I'd leave the 4 wheel drums to the stock resto crowd if it was me.