1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Fuel Economy Overview
The 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata achieves an EPA-estimated 22 MPG in combined city and highway driving, with 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. Powered by a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine paired with a manual 5-spd, this two seaters features Rear-Wheel Drive drive.
In terms of environmental impact, the 1997 MX-5 Miata produces approximately 404 grams of CO2 per mile. This figure is measured under standardized EPA test conditions and represents tailpipe emissions only. For context, the average new vehicle sold in the United States produces approximately 400 grams of CO2 per mile, meaning this MX-5 Miata has higher-than-average emissions in this regard.
The estimated annual fuel cost for this vehicle is $2,700, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and current national average fuel prices. Compared to the average new vehicle, you would save $2,750 over a 5-year period. This calculation accounts for differences in fuel consumption efficiency and provides a practical measure of long-term ownership costs attributable to fuel economy.
Energy DNA
Green Scorecard
Personalized Commute CalculatorEPA defaults to 55% City / 45% Hwy
Adjust the slider to match your daily driving habits. City driving involves stop-and-go traffic under 45mph, while highway driving represents sustained speeds over 55mph.
Aerodynamic Speed Penalty
EPA highway tests average roughly 48 mph. Driving at 75 mph increases aerodynamic drag exponentially. Expect your real-world highway fuel economy to drop by roughly 15-20% at interstate speeds.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Recall Intelligence
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
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Looking for comprehensive historical data?
NHTSA FARS (Fatal Crash History) and broader generational safety trends are aggregated at the model level rather than by specific engine configurations. View the complete historical data profile for all Mazda MX-5 Miata configurations.
Similar 1997 Two Seaters Alternatives
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
1.8L 4-cyl Rear-Wheel Drive
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Fuel Cost Analysis
Based on 15,000 miles/year and current fuel prices.
Efficiency Breakdown
Estimated Lifetime Carbon Footprint
(Based on 200,000 miles driven)