Modern oil and filter technology allows for longer oil change intervals (often 5,000-7,500 miles or even longer depending on the vehicle and driving conditions). However, a 3,000-mile interval in a 25+ year-old engine with likely a higher level of wear and tear is still on the short side compared to modern recommendations, but it doesn't mean that the 3000 mile oil change interval will be protective enough for 200,000 miles.
The 3,000-mile interval is an old guideline, and sticking to it wouldn't automatically guarantee longevity. Other factors significantly impact engine lifespan:
* Driving conditions: Frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, and towing put more stress on the engine.
* Maintenance: Regular maintenance beyond oil changes (e.g., coolant flushes, spark plug replacements, fuel filter changes) is crucial.
* Overall quality of maintenance: The quality of the oil used and the thoroughness of the oil changes directly impact the engine's health.
* Climate: Extreme temperatures can shorten engine life.
In short, while 200,000 miles isn't impossible, it's highly improbable with only 3,000-mile oil changes on a car that old. A more frequent oil change schedule (following the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific engine and oil type or using a more frequent interval) alongside other diligent maintenance is far more likely to extend the engine's life.
