Makes sense...
now someone please correct me if I'm wrong....
It would appear to me, after doing a force calculation, and fluid pressure calculation based on volume and mass....the 4 piston caliper is actually better ( in the above calculations) than a single piston caliper.
granted each piston is delivering less force than a single piston caliper, but the sum of 4 represents more force distributed over a wider area, and should in theroy give more control.
Do I have too many books open at the same time?

 

Dont over think it.the surface area of the piston determines the force applied.The piston on a single is huge compared to the four little ones.The surface area has to be the same in both instances orthe pressure would be too great for the proportioning valve to regulate with the rears,you would have a nose dive effect.Brakes would be too touchy for street use.Ford went away from 4 piston calipers in the 60s because they were siezing up,even in the showrooms.Technology wasnt there yet.todays high performance braking systems often use 4 piston setups that are better, Im sure,than 1 piston.For myself,its just extra expense and I wouldnt notice the difference the way I drive my car.

 

yes if the wheel locks up your in trouble yes 1 piston cailpers are fine for a street car only reason to go for bigger brakes is if you race it. but to me if you plan on some high power monster you need bigger brakes to stop it 60-0 matters too. i know in aus if you up the power of the car you have to use bigger brakes