21 MPG combined won’t impress shoppers looking for lower fuel costs, but it’s an expected trade-off for those who want the visceral driving experience of the 2019 Nissan 370Z Roadster. This isn’t basic transportation but a statement car for weekend fun. Buyers of open-air Z cars know thrilling acceleration and the sound of a V6 come at a cost. That cost includes frequent trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The 370Z Roadster’s EPA estimates are 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the 3.7-liter V6 is less efficient, especially when driven hard. The highway number is better, but even then, the Z’s short gearing means the engine is always working. The car is designed for responsiveness and immediate power, which impacts fuel consumption, not for long-distance efficiency. A heavy foot will easily pull these figures down into the low teens when driving aggressively. For context, check out 370Z MPG across all years to see its fuel economy history.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Nissan 370Z Roadster at $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and local gas prices. Someone who primarily drives short distances in the city will likely exceed this figure, while someone who takes careful highway cruises might come in slightly below. $2,750 represents the average cost for most drivers.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many 370Z Roadster owners stay close to the EPA estimates, but only if they try. The car’s sporty character and engaging engine sound tempt drivers to embrace its performance, which lowers MPG. It’s a car that encourages spirited driving, and resisting that urge can be hard. Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA numbers unless you’re actively trying to conserve fuel.

How it compares

Compared to others in its dwindling class of two-seat sports cars, the 370Z Roadster’s fuel economy is in the middle. The Mazda MX-5 Miata, for instance, gets better figures, with some trims rated as high as 29 MPG combined. However, the Miata offers a different driving experience, prioritizing lightweight agility over raw power. Other more powerful roadsters achieve similar or worse fuel economy.

The BMW Z4 M40i, with a turbocharged inline-six, delivers similar performance but gets around 25 MPG combined. The Porsche 718 Boxster, while offering superior handling and refinement, achieves similar figures to the Z. Those considering the 370Z are less likely to cross-shop against a Miata but may be drawn to that BMW or Porsche. For a broader view, consider all Nissan fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the 370Z Roadster. Avoid aggressive launches and try to maintain a steady speed. The V6 engine is responsive even at low RPMs, so there’s no need to constantly rev it high to get moving. Smooth, progressive throttle inputs will make a difference in your fuel consumption.

Use the automatic transmission’s taller gears on the highway. Using the highest gear possible will help reduce engine RPM and improve fuel efficiency. Avoid unnecessary downshifts by anticipating changes in traffic flow and gently using the accelerator to maintain speed.

Proper tire inflation is critical to fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on the doorjamb sticker. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more gas. This is good practice for any vehicle but especially so for one this performance-oriented.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or passenger seat adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, which impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to carry on a regular basis. The 370Z Roadster isn’t known for its cargo capacity, but even small weight reductions can make a slight difference.

Minimize idling. Letting your engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes negligible fuel compared to prolonged idling, especially with modern engine technology.