Sputters and dies, no compression on take off

Well im kind of going through the same problem right now with my 94 spirit 2.5L. Thats why im on these site. Try the fuel filter, thats going to be the next cheapest thing. For the 2.5 it cost about 16- $23.00
at a locale auto store. There probally going to ask you if its a flex filter and its not so say no. 2-3 auto stores asked me that. Filter is located pass. Side under rear door. Tools needed 1/2 socket and wrachet. Flat tip screw driver or a 8mm (i think) for the clamps. There are quick release hose on this filter and need no special tools to remove. Just push black plastic peice towards the gas line. This well spread the metal tabs and pull hose away from filter well plastic peice is being pushed. Hope its that simple for you. It started out for me being a fuel leak out of my fuel pump sending unit. NEW. Ran fine
Next morning got moved ran fine. Restarted later.
Doing what yours is doing now. CHecked plugs, wires, cap, rotor, and changed filter 2/21/06
no diff. Next im going to check the one and only injector in this car. I hope this isnt the case for u though. Because one little problem can be caused many diff. Things. Good luck with your task& tell me how it turned out. Jess S