Well, it's possible that I've some penchant for newer braking systems. However, that being said I've owned this particular car for 25 yrs. And the situation I'm describing isn't normal for a 70's car or for that matter any car with hydraulic brakes. The pedal is firm when the engine is off, the pedal is soft when the engine is operating. The brakes do function "properly". Meaning the brakes will stop the car and do so in a straight line without steering input. But this only happens when pumping the pedal. Again it's a new master cylinder, new fluid, new calipers in the front, new drums in the rear, new pads and shoes, new rotors, fully rebuilt rear braking system. The only thing I haven't replaced is the booster and the rubber lines up front.