Best Performance Distributors of 2025

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2025

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Performance Distributors is a renowned brand in the automotive industry that offers a wide range of high-performance ignition systems and components. Their products are designed to improve engine performance, increase horsepower, and enhance fuel efficiency. Performance Distributors' signature product is the DUI (Davis Unified Ignition) distributor, which is known for its superior quality and reliability. They also offer a variety of ignition coils, spark plug wires, and other components that are engineered to work together seamlessly for maximum performance. Whether you're a racing enthusiast or simply looking to upgrade your vehicle's ignition system, Performance Distributors has the products and expertise to help you achieve your goals.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

MSD Pro-Billet Distributor Cover #TOP 1
MSD Pro-Billet Distributor
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ProForm 66969BK HEI Distributor Cover #TOP 2
ProForm 66969BK HEI Distributor
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Proform 66941RM Mechanical Lockout HEI Racing Distributor with Steel Gear and Red Cap for Chevy V8 Cover #TOP 3
Proform 66941RM Mechanical Lockout HEI Racing Distributor with Steel Gear and Red Cap for Chevy V8
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Performance Distributors

#TOP 1

MSD Pro-Billet Distributor

MSD
85551
No Size
MSD Pro-Billet Distributor Cover
MSD 85551 Pro-Billet Distributor

The MSD Pro-Billet Distributor features an easy-to-adjust mechanical advance and maintenance-free magnetic pickup, providing stable trigger signals throughout the RPM range. Its polished steel shaft is guided by two sealed ball bearings, while the advance plate and weights are made from chromoly steel and QPQ coated for friction reduction. However, it does not accept a vacuum advance canister.

What We Like
Stable trigger signals throughout RPM range
Easy-to-adjust mechanical advance
Guided by two sealed ball bearings
#TOP 2

ProForm 66969BK HEI Distributor

66969BK
Black and steel
ProForm 66969BK HEI Distributor Cover
Proform 66969BK Vacuum Advance HEI Distributor with Steel Gear and Black Cap for Ford 221-302

The ProForm HEI Distributor is designed specifically for Ford 221-302 engines, ensuring a perfect fit for your vehicle. With package dimensions of approximately 20.1 x 19.1 x 38.1 centimeters and a weight of 6.4 pounds, it is easy to handle and install. Made in Taiwan, this performance distributor features a durable steel gear that enhances longevity and reliability. By upgrading to this distributor, you can expect improved engine performance and efficiency, making it a smart choice for your vehicle's ignition system.

What We Like
Vehicle specific fit
Durable steel gear
Lightweight for easy handling
Improves engine performance
#TOP 3

Proform 66941RM Mechanical Lockout HEI Racing Distributor with Steel Gear and Red Cap for Chevy V8

66941RM
Proform 66941RM Mechanical Lockout HEI Racing Distributor with Steel Gear and Red Cap for Chevy V8 Cover
Proform 66941RM Mechanical Lockout HEI Racing Distributor with Steel Gear and Red Cap for Chevy V8

The Proform Racing Distributor is a high-performance distributor designed specifically for Chevy V8 engines. With its mechanical lockout feature, it ensures precise ignition timing, making it ideal for racing applications. The included coil provides a strong and consistent spark, resulting in improved engine performance. The polished aluminum shaft not only adds a sleek look to your engine bay, but also provides durability and long-lasting performance. The distributor comes with a steel gear and a red cap, adding a touch of style to your engine. With its vehicle-specific fit, installation is quick and hassle-free. Upgrade your Chevy V8 engine with the Proform Racing Distributor and experience enhanced performance on and off the track.

What We Like
Precise ignition timing
Strong and consistent spark
Durable and stylish design
#TOP 4

PerTronix D100700 Flame-Thrower Distributor

D100700
PerTronix D100700 Flame-Thrower Distributor Cover
PerTronix D100700 Flame-Thrower Plug and Play Vacuum Advance Black Cap Billet Electronic Distributor with Ignitor II Technology for Chevrolet Small Block/Big Block

PerTronix Flame-Thrower Distributor is a high-quality distributor designed for Chevrolet Small Block/Big Block engines. Crafted from lightweight yet strong billet aluminum, it features a pre-installed Ignitor II module for easy setup. The distributor boasts a polished finish for a sleek look and a tempered shaft for precise timing and durability. With a ball bearing and oil impregnated bushing, it reduces friction and stabilizes the advance mechanism, minimizing vibration at high RPMs.

What We Like
Easy installation with pre-installed Ignitor II module
Precise timing for accurate performance
Sturdy construction for durability
#TOP 5

PerTronix D130700 Billet Electronic Distributor

D130700
Black and silver
PerTronix D130700 Billet Electronic Distributor Cover
PerTronix D130700 Flame-Thrower Plug and Play Vacuum Advance Black Cap Billet Electronic Distributor with Ignitor II Technology for Ford Small Block, Black and Silver

The PerTronix D130700 Billet Electronic Distributor is a high-performance distributor designed for Ford Small Block engines. It features a lightweight yet strong CNC machined 6061-T6 billet aluminum housing, a tempered distributor shaft for accurate timing and extended life, and a ball bearing and bronze bushing to reduce friction and high RPM vibration. The distributor comes with an Ignitor II module for easy installation and compatibility with most Capacitive Discharge Systems.

What We Like
Easy to install with pre-installed Ignitor II module
Reduces friction and high RPM vibration for smoother engine performance
Lightweight yet strong design
#TOP 6

PerTronix D100710 Flame-Thrower Distributor

D100710
PerTronix D100710 Flame-Thrower Distributor Cover
PerTronix D100710 Flame-Thrower Plug and Play Vacuum Advance Black Male Cap Billet Electronic Distributor with Ignitor II Technology for Chevrolet Small Block/Big Block

PerTronix Flame-Thrower Distributor is a high-performance distributor designed for Chevrolet Small Block/Big Block engines. Crafted from lightweight yet durable billet aluminum, this distributor comes equipped with Ignitor II technology for improved ignition performance. The precision CNC machined housing ensures strength, while the tempered shaft provides accurate timing and long operational life. With a polished finish and advanced ball bearing mechanism, this distributor reduces friction and vibration at high RPMs, enhancing stability and engine efficiency.

What We Like
Ignitor II Technology
Precision CNC Machined
Reduced Friction
#TOP 7

Pertronix Flame-Thrower Distributor for British 4 Cylinder Engine

D176600
Black
Pertronix Flame-Thrower Distributor for British 4 Cylinder Engine Cover
Pertronix D176600 Flame-Thrower Plug and Play Vacuum Advance Cast Electronic Distributor with Ignitor Technology for British 4 Cylinder Engine

The Pertronix Flame-Thrower Distributor is a plug and play vacuum advance cast electronic distributor designed for British 4 cylinder engines. This distributor features a lightweight cast aluminum housing and tailored advance curve for optimal performance and drivability. The integrated Ignitor electronic ignition delivers twice the voltage to the spark plugs, increasing horsepower, fuel economy, and spark plug life. Additionally, rotating cobalt magnets trigger a Hall Effect integrated circuit for precise timing, while the high dielectric strength cap with brass terminals provides reliable performance.

What We Like
Plug and play installation for easy setup
Improved horsepower, fuel economy, and spark plug life with integrated Ignitor electronic ignition
Precise timing with rotating cobalt magnets and Hall Effect integrated circuit
#TOP 8

PerTronix D100701 Flame-Thrower Distributor

D100701
PerTronix D100701 Flame-Thrower Distributor Cover
PerTronix D100701 Flame-Thrower Plug and Play Vacuum Advance Red Cap Billet Electronic Distributor with Ignitor II Technology for Chevrolet Small Block/Big Block

Upgrade your Chevrolet Small Block/Big Block engine with the PerTronix Flame-Thrower Distributor. This high-performance distributor features Ignitor II technology, offering precise timing and extended operational life. The lightweight yet strong 6061-T6 billet aluminum housing ensures maximum strength. With the hand-polished and buffed finish, this distributor not only performs well but also adds a touch of style to your engine. The upper ball bearing and oil-impregnated bronze lower bushing work together to reduce friction and provide stability, minimizing high RPM vibration. Experience improved engine performance and reliability with the PerTronix Flame-Thrower Distributor.

What We Like
Precision CNC machined
Ignitor II technology
Lightweight and strong
#TOP 9

Pertronix Flame-Thrower VW Type 1 Engine Distributor

D186504
Pertronix Flame-Thrower VW Type 1 Engine Distributor Cover
Pertronix D186504 Flame-Thrower VW Type 1 Engine Plug and Play Vacuum Advance Cast Electronic Distributor with Ignitor Technology

The Pertronix Flame-Thrower Distributor is a high-performance distributor designed specifically for VW Type 1 engines. With its lightweight cast aluminum housing and tailored advance curve, this distributor delivers optimal performance and driveability. The integrated Ignitor electronic ignition system provides twice the voltage to the spark plugs, resulting in increased horsepower, improved fuel economy, and longer spark plug life. The rotating cobalt magnets and Hall Effect integrated circuit ensure precise timing, while the high dielectric strength cap with brass terminals ensures reliable ignition. Upgrade your VW Type 1 engine with the Pertronix Flame-Thrower Distributor and experience enhanced performance and efficiency.

What We Like
Optimal performance and driveability
Increased horsepower and fuel economy
Longer spark plug life
#TOP 10

Top Street Performance JM6508BL Distributor

Top Street Performance
JM6508BL
Blue
Top Street Performance JM6508BL Distributor Cover
Top Street Performance JM6508BL HEI Distributor with Blue Cap (Vacuum Advance)

The Top Street Performance Distributor is designed with a striking blue cap, adding a touch of style to your engine. It is specifically made to fit Ford models with 330-428 V8 engines, ensuring a proper fit for your vehicle. You’ll appreciate the easy one-wire hookup, which simplifies installation and saves you time. However, it's important to note that this distributor does not work with heavy-duty trucks, so make sure to check compatibility before purchasing. This product offers a reliable performance boost, making it a great choice for enhancing your vehicle's capabilities.

What We Like
Attractive blue cap
Easy installation
Fits specific Ford engines
Performance enhancement
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a performance distributor do?

A performance distributor is an advanced ignition system that is designed to enhance the performance of a vehicle. Performance Distributors is a leading manufacturer of high-performance ignition systems, offering a wide range of quality products to upgrade your vehicle and unleash its power.

2. How to install a DUI distributor?

To install a DUI distributor, start by removing the distributor cap. Then, position the rotor to the same point it was in when it cleared the engine during the removal of the old distributor. Slide the distributor down into the engine, ensuring that the rotor turns to align with the reference mark when the distributor is fully seated.

3. Does a performance distributor add horsepower?

Yes, a performance distributor like the DUI (Davis Unified Ignition) can add horsepower. On average, the DUI distributor can provide a 15-20 horsepower increase over a stock ignition system. The actual horsepower gain may vary depending on other modifications made to the engine.

4. Can distributors increase horsepower?

Yes, distributors designed for performance can increase horsepower. By upgrading to a high-quality distributor specifically made for your vehicle, you can expect improved engine performance with smoother operation and increased power output across all RPM ranges.

5. What is the difference between MSD and DUI distributors?

The main difference between MSD and DUI distributors is their ignition system design. MSD (Multiple Spark Discharge) is an external CD ignition system, while DUI (Davis Unified Ignition) integrates the ignition system into the distributor itself. The DUI distributor offers custom tuning capabilities for maximum performance and eliminates detonation issues.

6. What is the gap on a DUI distributor?

The recommended gap for a DUI distributor is 0.055 inches. Most spark box systems suggest a gap no larger than 0.045 inches. The DUI's coil and module draw only 2-3 amps, making it an efficient and effective ignition system.

Editor's Notes

During our performance distributor research, we found 24 performance distributor products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,947 customer reviews through our big data system to write the performance distributors list. We found that most customers choose performance distributors with an average price of $230.69.

The performance distributors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of performance distributors, including MSD, ProForm, Pertronix, Top Street Performance. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 63 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.