Friction and wear characteristics of a Zn-27% Al-2% Cu alloy, modified with Ti and misch metal, with different Mn contents, coupled with steel have been studied. A pin-on-disk tribometer was used to measure the friction coefficient of alloy samples under different loads, speeds and lubricating conditions while the wear volume and temperature rise of the lubricant were measured by a cylinder-on-ring wear tester. Friction and wear characteristics of these Mn-containing alloys were compared with those of ZA-27. Effects of Mn content on the tribological behaviors and microstructures were studied and the relationships between the tribological characteristics and the microstructures of the alloy were also analyzed. Experimental results indicate that the addition of Mn can significantly improve the tribological behaviors of the Zn-27% Al-2% Cu alloy. Finally, an optimum Mn content for the best overall mechanical properties and tribological behaviors was obtained.