I had a Peugeot road bike in the cough*70s*cough (God, I feel so old). I loved that thing! If your new-to-you bike has been sitting around for a while, be sure you go through it thoroughly (cable, brake pads, chain, tires, etc. etc.) Since you got it for such a steal, you can afford to throw a little love at it!

I have my brakes switched on all my bikes, too (left rear, right front). It started because my husband wanted his bike like that (motorcycle history), so I switched mine, too. I have gotten used to it that way, and actually I think it works better for me. I have better control and coordination on that side (I'm right handed), so I can modulate the front better with that hand. Be sure you warn anyone who rides your bikes, or they're in for an instant endo!