Yes, try the simple things first ... as they are the cheapest and often, it's one of those that's the culprit.
Speaking of which, check for sticking brake calipers. They will do all that you describe above (poor drivability, terrible mileage). After going 5+ miles, get out and walk around the car. A sticking caliper will get CRAZY hot and be fairly obvious ... sometimes like the wheel's on fire.
Brake components for those cars are very, very cheap if you shop around.