* Year and Make/Model: A 2010 Honda Civic with 100,000 miles is very different than a 2010 Lamborghini with 100,000 miles. Some cars are simply built to last longer than others. Luxury cars and high-performance vehicles often have more wear and tear per mile driven.
* Maintenance History: A well-maintained car with higher mileage can be in better shape than a poorly maintained car with lower mileage. Service records are crucial.
* Driving Conditions: Mostly highway miles are gentler on a car than mostly city driving, which involves more stop-and-go wear and tear on brakes, transmission, and engine.
* Price: A car with higher mileage should generally cost less.
Instead of focusing on a specific mileage number, focus on these things:
* Get a pre-purchase inspection: This is the most important thing you can do. A mechanic can identify potential problems that might not be obvious.
* Check the carfax/AutoCheck report: This report will show the vehicle's history, including accidents, title issues, and maintenance records.
* Consider the overall condition: Look for signs of wear and tear, both inside and out. Test drive the car carefully.
In short, the "ideal" mileage is highly variable and depends on context. Focus on the car's condition and history rather than a specific mileage number.
