Hello, hopefully someone can help me out...

Ive got a 1997 Escort GTi 1.8 16v Zetec.

The problem is that the car will not rev past 4000rpm. It started last week when the car was driving along and it lost all power, revs dropped and all power went.

The car did seem to have a misfire, so changed the plugs and leads, no joy.

I have also changed the catalyst as I thought maybe that was blocked. no joy.

I replaced the lambda sensor as a diagnostic machine said that no reading was coming from it, no change still.

I also tested a new MAF sensor on the car from a known working escort gti, no change.

What happens is when the MAF is plugged in the car will not under any circumstances go over 4000rpm. With it unplugged, the car will go over 4k at a struggle and really sounds very flat engine wise, the exhaust note has changed and the car is so so so slow! Its also drinking petrol big time.

Im getting really fed up and down now, so please can anyone help me...thankyou in advance.