Digital BW, The Print

I have a very small collection of b&w streetcar negs taken primarily
in the mid- to late-1940s.  The quality of the images is mixed (many
lack the rich contrasts and detail I normally like in my images) and
the production was spotty.  Nevertheless, the images are very
interesting.  Getting nice prints is a challenge however.  Am
wondering if others in the group have done this kind of printing and
if they'd be willing to share advice/tips/successes/flops.  Thanks.
Bob Paterson