A hydraulic handbrake system designed for the Nissan 350Z replaces or supplements the factory emergency brake system, utilizing hydraulic pressure to lock the rear wheels independently of the vehicle’s main braking system. This modification allows for precise control over rear wheel lockup, a characteristic frequently sought after in drifting and other forms of motorsport.
The primary advantage of this type of system lies in its significantly enhanced braking force and modulation compared to a traditional cable-operated emergency brake. This results in quicker initiation and more controlled execution of drifting maneuvers. Historically, such systems have evolved from rudimentary designs to more sophisticated setups incorporating features like adjustable brake bias and integrated reservoirs to enhance performance and reliability.