Mazda MX-5 Miata
21.8 MPG The 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is EPA-rated at 21.8 MPG combined (19.5 city / 25.5 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 688 gallons, $2202 a year in fuel, or $0.147 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 1990–2005 run it averages 22.6 MPG, falling by 1.7 MPG over 15 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.115 | $1147 | $1720 | $2294 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.138 | $1376 | $2064 | $2752 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.147 | $1468 | $2202 | $2936 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.161 | $1606 | $2408 | $3211 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.183 | $1835 | $2752 | $3670 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.206 | $2064 | $3096 | $4128 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.229 | $2294 | $3440 | $4587 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 21.8 MPG | 19.5 | 25.5 | $3550 | 410 | 4 |
| 2004 | 21.8 MPG | 19.5 | 25.5 | $3550 | 410 | 4 |
| 2003 | 22.3 MPG | 20 | 25.7 | $3450 | 398 | 3 |
| 2002 | 22.3 MPG | 20 | 25.7 | $3450 | 398 | 3 |
| 2001 | 22.3 MPG | 20 | 25.7 | $3450 | 398 | 3 |
| 2000 | 23 MPG | 21 | 26 | $2717 | 387 | 3 |
| 1999 | 23 MPG | 21 | 26.3 | $2717 | 387 | 3 |
| 1997 | 22 MPG | 19.5 | 26 | $2850 | 404 | 2 |
| 1996 | 22.5 MPG | 20 | 26 | $2775 | 395 | 2 |
| 1995 | 22.5 MPG | 20 | 26.5 | $2775 | 395 | 2 |
| 1994 | 21.5 MPG | 19.5 | 25.5 | $2900 | 414 | 2 |
| 1993 | 23.5 MPG | 21 | 26.5 | $2650 | 378 | 2 |
| 1992 | 23.5 MPG | 21 | 26.5 | $2650 | 378 | 2 |
| 1991 | 23.5 MPG | 21.5 | 27 | $2650 | 378 | 2 |
| 1990 | 23.5 MPG | 21.5 | 27 | $2650 | 378 | 2 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 105 two seaters models tracked here, the Mazda MX-5 Miata ranks 34 on current figures, against a class average of 21.4 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Alfa Romeo Spider (22), Bertone X1/9 (22), Jaguar F-Type S Convertible (22), Jaguar F-Type S Coupe (22), Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG (22).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 410 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 6.2 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Mazda MX-5 Miata get?
The 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rated at 21.8 MPG combined by the EPA — 19.5 city and 25.5 highway. Across all 15 model years in the database it averages 22.6 MPG, ranging from 20 to 24 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Mazda MX-5 Miata cost in fuel per year?
At 21.8 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 688 gallons — roughly $2202 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.147 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2005 model is $3550.
Has the Mazda MX-5 Miata become more efficient over time?
No — it has actually gone backwards, from 23.5 MPG in 1990 to 21.8 in 2005. That usually reflects the model growing heavier, more powerful, or moving upmarket rather than the engineering getting worse.
Is the Mazda MX-5 Miata efficient for its class?
It ranks 34 of 105 in the Two Seaters class on current figures, against a class average of 21.4 MPG. That is 0.4 better than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.