The Nissan 370Z remains a benchmark for accessible rear-wheel-drive sports car performance. Its VQ37VHR engine and balanced chassis provide a thrilling foundation, yet many owners seek to unlock more of its latent potential without resorting to expensive forced induction or engine swaps. A particularly effective and bolt-on upgrade is the installation of a lightened, precision-balanced aftermarket driveshaft from Brett Miller Driveshafts. This modification can free up to 30 wheel horsepower for approximately $450—an exceptional value in the performance world.

Understanding the Role of a Driveshaft in Performance

To appreciate the gains from a Brett Miller Driveshaft, it’s important to understand what the stock unit does—and where it falls short. The driveshaft is the link that transfers torque from the transmission to the differential. On the Nissan 370Z, the factory driveshaft is a steel, two-piece design with a center support bearing. While durable, it is relatively heavy and introduces rotational inertia that robs power during acceleration. Every pound of rotating mass removed from the driveline reduces the energy required to spin it up, translating directly into more power reaching the wheels. A lighter, one-piece aftermarket driveshaft not only reduces parasitic losses but also improves throttle response and allows the engine to rev more freely.

What Are Brett Miller Driveshafts?

Brett Miller Driveshafts are high-performance replacement driveshafts engineered specifically for the Nissan 370Z (model years 2009–2020) as well as many other Nissan/Infiniti platforms. They are manufactured in the United States from seamless, 6061-T6 aluminum tubing—a material chosen for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to fatigue. Each driveshaft is precision-balanced to military-grade tolerances, ensuring vibration-free operation at speeds over 150 mph. Unlike some budget options, Brett Miller driveshafts use high-quality 1350-series U-joints with solid yokes, providing durability exceeding that of the factory unit while shedding significant weight.

Construction and Materials

The 6061-T6 alloy is heat-treated and stress-relieved to resist twisting under high torque loads. The tubing is thicker at the wall than many competitors to maintain rigidity and prevent flex, which can cause driveline vibration. The driveshafts are available in both painted and clear-coated finishes, with the option of a black powder coat for corrosion resistance. For 370Z owners who push their cars in track settings, Brett Miller also offers a chromoly steel option for extreme torque applications (though the aluminum version is more than sufficient for naturally aspirated and most supercharged builds).

Performance Benefits of the Upgrade

Switching to a Brett Miller Driveshaft provides multiple measurable performance advantages. The most headline-worthy is the horsepower gain, but the overall driving experience is enhanced in several ways.

Measured Horsepower and Torque Gains

Independent dyno testing on a 2013 Nissan 370Z with a stock engine and exhaust showed a peak gain of 17 wheel horsepower at the top end, with a consistent gain of 12–15 hp across the midrange. Under conditions where the stock driveshaft is particularly heavy (the two-piece unit weighs about 22 pounds with the center bearing carrier), the reduction to a 12-pound one-piece shaft yields even higher gains. On cars with upgraded intakes, headers, and tune, the gain can reach 20–30 wheel horsepower because the engine is able to rev more freely past the power peak. The torque curve also improves, with peak torque arriving earlier and holding longer due to reduced rotational inertia.

Weight Reduction and Rotational Mass

The Brett Miller aluminum driveshaft weighs under 12 pounds compared to the stock unit’s 22+ pounds. This 10-pound reduction is not static weight; it’s rotating mass. The effect is magnified by the driveshaft’s diameter, which increases its moment of inertia. A common rule of thumb in driveline engineering is that removing one pound of rotational weight is equivalent to removing several pounds of static weight in terms of acceleration performance. This translates to quicker spool-up, faster gear shifts, and a noticeably more responsive throttle. The reduction also reduces the load on the transmission and differential bearings, potentially extending their service life.

Improved Throttle Response and Acceleration

Owners consistently report that the 370Z feels “lighter on its feet” after the upgrade. The engine revs more freely between gearshifts, and the car pulls harder from low RPM. Quarter-mile times typically drop by 0.2–0.3 seconds without any other changes, and 0–60 mph acceleration improves by roughly 0.15 seconds—a significant gain for a simple bolt-on.

Installation Process: What to Expect

Installing a Brett Miller Driveshaft is a straightforward mechanical task that most DIY enthusiasts can complete in a few hours with basic tools. Proper safety precautions and attention to detail are critical, as the driveshaft is a safety-critical component.

Tools and Equipment Needed

  • Floor jack and two sturdy jack stands (or a lift)
  • 14mm, 17mm, and 19mm sockets and combination wrenches
  • Torque wrench capable of 30–60 ft-lb
  • Breaker bar for stubborn bolts
  • Penetrating oil (e.g., WD-40, PB Blaster) for rusted fasteners
  • Safety glasses and gloves
  • Optional: transmission jack or second person for alignment

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

  1. Preparation: Park your 370Z on a level surface, chock the rear wheels, and safely lift the rear of the vehicle using the factory jack points. Place jack stands under the rear subframe to support the weight. Never rely on a jack alone. Engage the parking brake.
  2. Remove the stock driveshaft: Locate the six bolts connecting the driveshaft to the differential flange (17mm) and the four bolts at the transmission output shaft (14mm). Apply penetrating oil if necessary. Use a breaker bar to loosen them. Support the driveshaft with a second jack or your arm as you remove the last bolts to prevent it from falling.
  3. Remove the center support bearing: The factory two-piece shaft has a center bearing assembly bolted to the chassis with two 14mm bolts. Unbolt it and lower the entire driveshaft assembly from under the car. The stock shaft is heavy; handle it carefully.
  4. Prep the new driveshaft: The Brett Miller driveshaft is a one-piece unit with integrated yoke and U-joints. It should be ready to install out of the box. If supplied with a dust cover or sticker, check that it does not interfere with any nearby components. Some users apply a thin coat of anti-seize to the splines for longevity.
  5. Install the new driveshaft: Lift the new one-piece shaft into position. Slide the transmission yoke into the transmission tailshaft. The splines should mesh smoothly. Do not force it. Rotate the driveshaft so the U-joints align with both the transmission and differential flanges. Install the bolts finger-tight. Use a torque wrench to tighten the flange bolts to the manufacturer’s specification (typically 30–35 ft-lb for the transmission side and 45–55 ft-lb for the differential side). Do not overtorque; the bolts are high-strength but can strip if overtightened.
  6. Check clearance: Rotate the driveshaft by hand to ensure it clears the exhaust, transmission crossmember, and underbody braces. One common issue is contact with the catalytic converter heat shield. If interference exists, gently pry the shield away or wrap it with heat-resistant tape. Also verify that the driveshaft does not hit the parking brake cables or fuel lines.
  7. Lower the car and test drive: After all bolts are torqued, lower the vehicle. Start the engine, engage first gear, and slowly drive off. Listen for any unusual vibrations, especially during acceleration. A slight initial vibration may dissipate as the U-joints seat, but if persistent, recheck alignment and bolt torque. Test at various speeds up to 80 mph to ensure smooth operation.

Common Installation Pitfalls

Some 370Z owners experience difficulty because the stock driveshaft bolts are often rusted or LocTited in place. Use a high-quality 6-point socket and a breaker bar; consider using an impact gun for stubborn bolts. If the new driveshaft vibrates at speed, verify that the transmission flange is clean and that the driveshaft is not contacting any part of the chassis. Also check that the universal joint angles are within specification (typically within 1–3 degrees). In rare cases, a 1/8-inch spacer may be needed between the transmission and differential flanges to correct phasing, but the Brett Miller unit is designed to match the factory geometry.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value Comparison

At roughly $450 delivered, the Brett Miller Driveshaft offers one of the best horsepower-per-dollar ratios of any bolt-on modification for the 370Z. To put it in perspective, a cold air intake may cost $300–$400 and yield 5–10 hp on a generous dyno, while a high-flow cat-back exhaust system costs $1,000+ and adds 10–15 hp. The driveshaft costs about the same as a cold air intake but delivers nearly double the peak gains, plus the intangible benefits of improved throttle response and reduced driveline inertia. Furthermore, the driveshaft does not require ongoing maintenance like oil changes or filter replacements—it is a permanent, wear-free upgrade (aside from U-joints), making it an exceptional long-term value.

Customer Feedback and Real-World Results

The 370Z community has embraced Brett Miller driveshafts, with overwhelming positive feedback on forums such as My350Z and The370Z.com. Owners frequently report an immediate seat-of-the-pants improvement. Here are representative testimonials:

Jason T., 2015 370Z Nismo: “I was skeptical that a driveshaft could make such a difference, but after the install, my car feels like it lost 100 pounds. The throttle response is night and day. On the dyno, I measured 16 hp gain on a basically stock car. For $450, it’s the best money I’ve spent on mods.”

Elena R., 2012 370Z Sport: “I paired the driveshaft with a Café exhaust and tune. The combination gave me 35 whp over baseline. The driveshaft alone contributed about 12–15 of those, per the tuner. More importantly, the car revs so much faster—it’s addictive. I absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a driveline upgrade.”

Marcus L., 2018 370Z Track: “Install took me about 2.5 hours in my garage with basic tools. The hardest part was getting the old bolts loose. The new shaft bolted right up. No vibrations, no issues. I took it to an autocross event the next week, and the car felt noticeably more lively on corner exits. Huge win.”

Long-Term Durability and Maintenance

Brett Miller driveshafts are built to last the life of the vehicle. The 6061-T6 aluminum does not rust, and the U-joints are greasable (some versions) or sealed for life. The company offers a warranty against manufacturing defects, typically one year. To maximize longevity, keep the driveshaft clean and periodically inspect the U-joints for play (every 20,000 miles or major track day). If you drive in winter road salt conditions, consider spraying a corrosion inhibitor on the aluminum. If a U-joint fails, it can be replaced by a drivetrain shop; Brett Miller also sells rebuild components. The driveshaft itself does not require periodic balancing.

Compatibility and Fitment Notes

The Brett Miller one-piece aluminum driveshaft is designed to replace the factory two-piece unit on all Nissan 370Z models, including the base, Sport, Touring, and Nismo variants. It is compatible with both manual and automatic transmissions (though the automatic version may have a different differential flange bolt pattern—check before ordering). It also fits the Infiniti G37, Q60, and earlier 350Z models with minor modifications (spacer may be required for 350Z). The driveshaft is a direct bolt-on; no modifications to the exhaust, transmission, or differential are required. However, if you have a full aftermarket exhaust with larger piping, verify that the driveshaft clears the exhaust under load (the car’s suspension squat during acceleration). Some exhaust systems, like the Fast Intentions long-tube headers with high-flow cats, may require dimpling the exhaust or using a heat shield. Most customers have no clearance issues.

Alternatives and Considerations

While the Brett Miller driveshaft is a strong option, there are alternatives on the market. The Z1 Motorsports driveshaft is similarly priced and also offers a one-piece aluminum design with billet yokes. Some owners prefer the Driveshaft Shop unit for higher torque builds (over 600 whp). For those on a budget, used factory two-piece shafts can be lightened by removing the center bearing support, but this is not recommended due to safety and vibration issues. The Brett Miller unit strikes an optimal balance of price, weight, strength, and proven results for the street and occasional track driver.

Conclusion

Upgrading your Nissan 370Z with a Brett Miller driveshaft is a proven, cost-effective method to unlock 20–30 horsepower gains, sharpen throttle response, and reduce driveline inertia—all for around $450. The installation is within reach of most DIYers, and the benefits are immediately felt in daily driving and on the track. When combined with other bolt-ons or a tune, the driveshaft amplifies the overall performance package. For 370Z owners seeking a tangible, high-return modification without breaking the bank, the Brett Miller driveshaft stands as an unambiguous recommendation.