"Cause in my eyes brake pads and rotors are cheap compared to a clutch and transmission, that's why I never downshift when coming to a stop light. Just put it in neutral and coast then use the brakes."
I have a 2001 Frontier Supercharged 5 speed manual with 90,000 miles. For those 90,000 miles I have downshifted almost every time I approach a red light or stop sign. Still has the original clutch disks and transmission/rear end are great shape. So enjoy your Z and downshift
. . . because it was made for doing these things. BTW....when you downshift there is less wear to brake pads and rotors because the engine is helping to bring your car to a stop.