Mazda MX-5 vs Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
The Mazda MX-5 is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 30 mpg combined versus 23 mpg for the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, a 7 mpg advantage and costs about $750 less per year to fuel.
Across 5 measured categories, the Mazda MX-5 leads in 5. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2015–2027
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
Two Seaters · 40 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Mazda MX-5 | Mercedes-Benz SL-Class |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 30 mpg ✓ | 23 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 27 mpg ✓ | 21 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 36 mpg ✓ | 28 mpg |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $2,550 ✓ | $3,300 |
| Lowest CO2 output | 298 g/mi ✓ | 379 g/mi |
| Engines offered | SIDI, 2.0 | SIDI, SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI; PHEV, 6.0 |
| Transmissions | Automatic (S6), Manual 6-spd, Manual 5-spd | Automatic 9-spd, Automatic 7-spd |
| Drivetrains | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Premium | Premium, Premium and Electricity |
| EPA class | Two Seaters | Two Seaters |
| Years covered | 2015–2026 | 2015–2027 |
| Configurations on record | 25 | 40 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
MX-5 vs SL-Class: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Mazda MX-5 or the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
The Mazda MX-5 is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 30 mpg combined versus 23 mpg for the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, a 7 mpg advantage and costs about $750 less per year to fuel.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Mazda MX-5 runs about $2,550 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $3,300 for the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class — a difference of roughly $750 per year.
What engines do the MX-5 and SL-Class offer?
Mazda MX-5: SIDI, 2.0. Mercedes-Benz SL-Class: SIDI, SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI; PHEV, 6.0.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Mazda MX-5 and the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class as Two Seaters, so they compete directly.
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Comparison id: mazda-mx-5-vs-mercedes-benz-sl-class