The weight of the car makes the difference. In my opinion, a lightweight early car drives just fine with an "armstrong" steering box and manual brakes, as long as the master cylinder and pedal ratio are appropriately sized for the system. A power brake system might use a 4:1 ratio, while a manual system might use a 6:1 or 7:1 ratio. An aftermarket pedal/support/master arrangement with an adjustable bias bar and two masters will allow you to dial the system in to a gnat's eyelash. Use a residual valve in the line to the rear if using drums on the rear to keep the shoes pushed out against the springs a little.