New brakes?
 

I have an 80's Univega Gran Sprint that I like. It's time for brakes. Are the old Dia Compe 400 good enough or should I replace them with some other recent sidepull. I am finicky about brakes and want good stopping power./ Thanks/ Bob

If you are strong enough, the brakes are good enough. But you should definitely put in Kool Stop brake pads. There is no better kind, and they're not expensive.

I agree. The first step in getting better brake performance is new pads. Clean the rims with some oil free nailpolish remover or rubbing alcohol can help too.

+1^^
Rim brake surface can get glazed up with pad material and oil from the roads, after some miles...