Why Lightweight Aluminum Components Matter for Your Nissan 370Z

The Nissan 370Z has earned a reputation as a driver-focused sports car that balances raw performance with everyday usability. However, like any production vehicle, it comes with compromises. OEM parts are designed for cost efficiency and durability across a wide range of driving conditions, often leaving performance gains on the table. Upgrading to lightweight aluminum components addresses one of the most impactful areas for improvement: weight reduction. Reducing weight not only improves acceleration, braking, and handling but also reduces wear on other drivetrain and suspension components. Aluminum, with its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and natural corrosion resistance, is the material of choice for serious enthusiasts. This guide covers the science behind aluminum upgrades, the most effective components to swap, installation considerations, and how to maximize your investment.

Understanding the Physics: Unsprung Mass and Rotational Mass

Before selecting parts, it helps to understand two key concepts: unsprung mass and rotational mass. Unsprung mass includes components not supported by the suspension springs—wheels, tires, brakes, control arms, and parts of the suspension linkage. Reducing unsprung mass allows the suspension to follow road irregularities more precisely, improving tire contact and grip. Rotational mass refers to wheels, brake rotors, and drivetrain components like the driveshaft. Lighter rotating parts reduce inertia, meaning less energy is needed to accelerate or decelerate them. This translates to quicker throttle response, faster acceleration, and more effective braking. Aluminum parts directly reduce both types of mass.

How Aluminum Compares to Other Materials

While carbon fiber offers even greater weight savings, it is significantly more expensive and can be brittle in certain applications. Steel is heavy but inexpensive. Aluminum strikes an ideal balance for components that need strength, impact resistance, and long-term durability. For example, an aluminum control arm can weigh 30-40% less than its steel counterpart while maintaining equivalent stiffness. Aluminum wheels are typically 15-20% lighter than cast alloy wheels from the factory, and an aluminum driveshaft can cut rotational inertia by 40% or more compared to a two-piece steel shaft.

Key Aluminum Upgrades for the Nissan 370Z

Aluminum Wheels

Factory 370Z wheels are cast alloy, weighing around 22-26 pounds each depending on the model year. Switching to forged aluminum wheels from brands like Rays Engineering or Enkei can drop weight to 17-19 pounds per wheel. The reduction in unsprung and rotational mass improves acceleration, braking, and steering response. Lighter wheels also reduce strain on suspension bushings and wheel bearings. For street and track use, consider 18-inch forged wheels to save even more weight over the 19-inch OEM size.

Aluminum Suspension Components

Upgrading control arms, tension rods, and sway bars to aluminum versions offers multiple benefits. Adjustable aluminum control arms allow precise alignment settings for aggressive camber and caster, improving cornering grip. Aluminum tension rods replace heavy steel units and reduce deflection under braking. Aluminum sway bars are lighter than solid steel bars and can be adjusted for different stiffness levels. Brands like Z1 Motorsports and SPL Parts offer billet aluminum suspension arms designed for the 370Z that are both stronger and lighter than OEM.

Aluminum Driveshaft

The factory 370Z driveshaft is a two-piece steel unit weighing approximately 25 pounds. An aluminum one-piece driveshaft weighs around 12-14 pounds. The reduction in rotational mass is dramatic—every pound removed from the driveshaft has an effect equivalent to removing several pounds from the car's body in terms of acceleration. Additionally, a one-piece aluminum shaft eliminates the center support bearing and U-joint, reducing drivetrain loss and improving throttle response. Ensure you choose a unit with a proper vibration damper or balanced design to avoid driveline vibrations at highway speeds.

Aluminum Cooling System Components

The 370Z's VQ37VHR engine benefits from improved cooling, especially under track conditions. An aluminum radiator with dual-core or triple-core construction offers superior heat dissipation compared to the plastic-and-aluminum OEM unit. Aluminum coolant expansion tanks replace brittle plastic reservoirs that can crack over time. Aluminum oil coolers with thermostatic plates help maintain consistent oil temperatures. These upgrades not only reduce weight but also improve long-term reliability.

Aluminum Brake Components

While aluminum brake calipers are common on high-performance cars, the 370Z's base model uses iron calipers. Upgrading to lightweight aluminum calipers (such as Akebono or StopTech) reduces unsprung mass significantly. Also consider aluminum brake pedal assemblies and aluminum master cylinder braces to improve pedal feel and reduce flex.

Installation and Considerations

Compatibility and Fitment

Not all aftermarket aluminum parts fit every 370Z model year equally. Differences in ABS sensors, suspension geometry, and wheel offset mean you must verify compatibility before purchasing. Always check the manufacturer's fitment guide or contact a specialist. For sway bars, ensure end links and bushings match the bar diameter. For control arms, some kits include spherical bearings that may introduce cabin noise—consider urethane bushings for street use.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

Some aluminum upgrades, like wheels and sway bars, are straightforward with basic tools. Others, such as control arms and the driveshaft, require precise torque specifications and alignment after installation. Replacing the driveshaft involves supporting the transmission, removing the exhaust mid-pipe, and handling potentially seized bolts. For suspension work, alignment must be performed by a shop with experience in 370Z geometry. A professional installation ensures parts are torqued to spec and the vehicle is safe to drive at the limit.

Cost vs. Performance Trade-offs

Aluminum components are more expensive than steel or cast iron counterparts. For example, a set of four forged aluminum wheels can cost $2,000–$4,000, while an aluminum driveshaft runs $600–$1,200. However, the cumulative effect of saving 50-80 pounds of unsprung and rotational mass can transform the car's character. Prioritize parts that offer the greatest performance per dollar: wheels, driveshaft, and control arms typically provide the most noticeable improvement. A staged upgrade plan helps spread cost over time.

Maintenance and Long-Term Benefits

Aluminum resists corrosion, but it can still suffer from galvanic corrosion when in contact with steel fasteners. Use anti-seize compound on bolts and consider stainless steel hardware for exposed components. Aluminum parts should be inspected periodically for cracks, especially on track-driven cars. Many aftermarket aluminum components are re-buildable—for example, spherical bearings can be replaced when worn. With proper care, these upgrades will outlast the original steel parts while continuing to provide performance benefits.

Top Brands and Aftermarket Support

The 370Z has a mature aftermarket. For aluminum upgrades, some of the most trusted brands include:

  • Z1 Motorsports – Offers a wide range of aluminum suspension arms, radiator, and driveshaft kits specifically for the 370Z.
  • SPL Parts – High-end billet aluminum suspension components with professional-grade spherical bearings.
  • Enkei / Rays / Volk Racing – Premium forged aluminum wheels known for strength and light weight.
  • Mishimoto – Aluminum radiators and cooling system parts with lifetime warranty.
  • Whiteline – Aluminum sway bars and adjustable links for improved handling.

Always purchase from reputable retailers who specialize in 370Z parts to avoid counterfeit or misaligned components.

Real-World Performance Gains

Enthusiasts who have combined multiple aluminum upgrades report 0-60 mph improvements of 0.2-0.4 seconds and quicker lap times due to better corner exit traction. On a road course, reduced unsprung mass allows the tires to follow bumps more effectively, increasing driver confidence. The weight savings from an aluminum driveshaft are also felt during gear changes—the engine revs more freely. While individual gains may seem small, the holistic effect of a thoughtfully chosen set of aluminum components makes the 370Z feel sharper, more responsive, and more engaging to drive.

Final Recommendations

Start with aluminum wheels and a lightweight driveshaft—these offer the most dramatic improvement for the investment. Next, consider front and rear control arms to sharpen turn-in and stability. Aluminum cooling components are worthwhile for anyone who tracks their car or lives in a hot climate. Always pair suspension upgrades with a professional alignment tailored to your driving style. By focusing on quality parts and correct installation, you can unlock the full potential of your Nissan 370Z without sacrificing reliability or street manners.