DecodedCarsMazda MX-5 vs Nissan Z
2026 Mazda MX-5 vs 2026 Nissan Z — two two seaterss compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Mazda MX-5 is more fuel-efficient: 29 vs 22 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $900 a year less in fuel for the Mazda MX-5 (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
Across all model years since 2005, the Nissan Z has had fewer recall campaigns (2 vs 5).
The two cars
The 2026 Mazda MX-5 is a two seaters offered with a 2.0L 4-cyl engine and rear-wheel drive. It measures about 154 inches long and 68 inches wide on a 91-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 2,348 lb (2dr Convertible).
The 2026 Nissan Z is a two seaters offered with a 3.0L 6-cyl turbo engine and rear-wheel drive. EPA rates its most efficient version at 22 MPG combined (19 city / 28 highway), 18% better than the 2026 two seaters average of 18.7 MPG, for an estimated $3,750 a year in fuel.
Buying used? The 2015 MX-5 and the 2024 Z have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2016 MX-5.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Mazda MX-5 if…
- You want lower fuel bills (29 vs 22 MPG)
Choose the Nissan Z if…
It doesn't clearly beat the Mazda MX-5 on any measure we track.
Pros & cons of each
2026 Mazda MX-5
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 29 MPG combined — 55% better than the average 2026 two seaters (18.7 MPG).
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
2026 Nissan Z
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 22 MPG combined — 18% better than the average 2026 two seaters (18.7 MPG).
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 Mazda MX-5 specs →Full 2026 Nissan Z specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →