This may sound like a rookie question and all but hell, it is. Does mileage affect a car's performance that much. For example, would my 97 max with 85K perform worse than it would have when it was new? Just wondering if my car is getting slower.

 

If you havent changed your spark plugs that could be your problemo

 

I guess it really comes down to how well the car has been maintained. There are lots of things that wear out that can affect the performance, or the perceived performance of a car. Take, for example, the suspension. If you've got 85k miles (like I do) and have yet to change out the struts and shocks (like me), you will probably feel that the car doesn't handle the way it used to. A dragging brake caliper that has 85k worth of salt spray on it will certainly make the car slower. As far as internal engine condition goes, it seems like these engines will go far and above 85k miles just fine IF given a modicum of attention (regular oil changes, correct spark plugs, filter changes, the occasional can of injector cleaner).

I've never put this many miles on a car and have as few problems as I've had. 85K miles = the break in period!

cv