What are the main differences between drum brakes and disc brakes?

Drum brakes use brake shoes pressing against the inside of a drum, while disc brakes use calipers and pads squeezing against a rotor. Disc brakes generally offer better stopping power, heat dissipation, and easier maintenance compared to drum brakes.

Are drum brakes good for restomod builds?

Drum brakes may be suitable for period-correct restorations, budget builds, or cars driven primarily in light traffic. However, they lack the performance and safety benefits of disc brakes.

Why should I upgrade to disc brakes?

Upgrading to disc brakes provides superior stopping power, better heat dissipation, and compatibility with modern upgrades like power brakes or ABS. Disc brake conversion kits also improve vehicle safety and resale value.

What are tips for installing a disc brake conversion kit?

Check kit compatibility with your vehicle, pair the upgrade with suspension improvements like a Mustang II front suspension, consider professional installation for safety, and ensure quality supporting components like rotors, calipers, and pads.

Which is better for a restomod: disc or drum brakes?

Disc brakes are generally better for restomods because of their superior performance, safety, and upgrade potential. Drum brakes may only be preferable for original-style restorations or low-budget builds.

Disc vs. Drum Brakes: Pros and Cons for Restomods

Aug 31st 2025

Disc vs. Drum Brakes for Restomods

When upgrading classic cars, one of the most common questions among restomod enthusiasts is whether to stick with drum brakes or upgrade to disc brakes. Understanding the pros and cons of each system is essential before investing in a disc brake conversion kit or other braking components.

How Drum Brakes Work

Drum brakes have been around since the early 20th century. They work by pushing brake shoes outward against the inside of a rotating drum attached to the wheel, generating friction to slow the vehicle.

Pros of Drum Brakes

Lower cost – cheaper to manufacture and replace.
Simpler design – easier to maintain on older vehicles with original parts.
Integrated parking brake – many drum setups include a simple parking brake system.

Cons of Drum Brakes

Poor heat dissipation – drums retain heat, leading to brake fade during heavy braking.
Less stopping power – not ideal for higher-performance restomods.
More maintenance – brake shoes wear faster and require frequent adjustments. Consider upgrading with disc brake kits for long-term reliability.

How Disc Brakes Work

Disc brakes operate by squeezing calipers and pads against a spinning rotor, creating friction that slows the wheel. Modern disc brakes are standard on most vehicles because of their performance and reliability.

Pros of Disc Brakes

Superior stopping power – ideal for performance-oriented restomods.
Better heat dissipation – rotors cool faster than drums, reducing fade.
Easier maintenance – pads are simple to replace and need less adjustment.
Compatible with modern upgrades – many disc brake conversion kits integrate with power brakes, ABS, or performance calipers.

Cons of Disc Brakes

Higher cost – calipers, rotors, and kits cost more than drum systems.
More complex installation – especially when retrofitting older cars.

Why Disc Brake Conversions Are Popular for Restomods

Many restomod builders choose disc brake conversions because they combine safety, performance, and compatibility with other upgrades. When paired with a Mustang II suspension or other front suspension kits, disc brakes provide:

Improved handling and stopping power – essential for modern driving.
Upgrade flexibility – with custom rotor sizes, calipers, and power brake options.
Enhanced vehicle value – safer, more reliable braking increases appeal and resale value.

Disc vs. Drum Brakes: Which Should You Choose?

Drum Brakes: Suitable for period-correct restorations, light street driving, or lower-budget builds.
Disc Brakes: Best for performance restomods, cars with suspension upgrades, or vehicles needing reliable stopping power.

Tips for Installing a Disc Brake Conversion Kit

Check compatibility with your car’s front or rear axle.
Pair with suspension upgrades – such as Mustang II suspension for best results.
Consider professional installation – ensures proper alignment and safety.
Upgrade supporting parts – invest in quality rotors, calipers, and pads for long-term performance.

Pro Tip: Consider upgrading your master cylinder, brake booster, and proportioning valve. Hydroboost systems are excellent for high-horsepower restomods.

Conclusion

In the debate of disc vs. drum brakes, disc brakes clearly offer superior performance, reliability, and upgrade potential for restomods. Drum brakes may suffice for budget builds or period-correct restorations, but most modern restomod enthusiasts choose disc brake conversion kits for safety and performance.

Pairing the right brake kit with high-quality suspension components ensures your restomod not only looks amazing but also stops and handles like a modern car.