Hi there, I was hoping to gather some information on the braking system for my new(?) 1965 122S. As of now, I have replaced both rear wheel cylinders and shoes. I have added a set of stainless steel brake lines also. This car still has the single circut master cylinder (newish) in it, and I don't want to add a power system, but I would consider changing out the master cylinder for one that added to the brake performance. Front rotors and calipers are in really good shape.

My questions concern the performance of the braking system. I don't mind the way it stops right now, but my wife drives the car too and does not like how hard she has to push on the pedal in order to get the car to stop. She say's that it makes her nervous and makes her feel that the brakes won't do what she needs them to do in an emergency situation (although I reassure her that they will). She drives a 2000 Mercedes daily and I can understand her concern. The 122 and Mercedes brakes are worlds apart, but I want her to feel comfortable driving the Volvo.

Are there any brakes pads out there that give a better "feel"? I'm not looking to have a soft pedal or anything, just a pad that maybe has a bit more bite than the current ones,(of which I don't know the origin). Any thoughts on changing the master cylinder to a better "feeling"/performing unit?

Any advice or suggestion would be appreciated. Thanks

Christopher