1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata (Automatic 4-spd) MPG & Specs
Quick answer
The 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata gets an EPA-estimated 19/26 MPG (city/highway) and 22 MPG combined, with an estimated $2,800/year fuel cost and 403.955 g/mi CO₂. Engine: 1.8 L 4-cyl.
The 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata with the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder regular gasoline engine returns an EPA-estimated 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, for a combined 22 MPG. This page summarizes the official EPA fuel-economy and emissions data for this configuration.
| Engine | 1.8 L 4-cyl |
| Transmission | Automatic 4-spd |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel type | Regular Gasoline |
| Vehicle class | Two Seaters |
| MPG — city | 19 |
| MPG — highway | 26 |
| MPG — combined | 22 |
| Annual fuel cost* | $2,800 |
| CO₂ tailpipe | 403.955 g/mi |
| EPA GHG score | — |
How efficient is it?
With a combined 22 MPG, the 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata sits in the moderate range for fuel economy. That is about average for its class (Two Seaters, 20 MPG average).
Fuel economy and running costs
At about $2,800 per year in fuel (EPA estimate, 15,000 mi/yr), fuel is a major part of the cost of owning the 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Over five years that is roughly $14,000 at today's prices — before insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.
Emissions
The 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata emits approximately 403.955 grams of CO₂ per mile at the tailpipe. Lower emissions generally track higher fuel economy.
How to read these numbers
EPA figures come from standardized laboratory test cycles and are the same estimates shown on the vehicle's window sticker. Your real-world mileage depends on driving style, conditions, fuel grade, and maintenance. Use combined MPG and annual fuel cost to compare vehicles fairly.