My '96 960 (102K miles) seldom starts, or even fires the first time the key is turned and the starter rotates when the engine is cold, no matter how long you crank the engine.

When the key is released to the run position after the first attempt (even a two second attempt), you can hear the fuel pump run for about a second or so, then shut off.

If you THEN engage the starter (from the "run" or "off" position), the car starts and runs instantly and perfectly every time.

Hot (or warm if the car sits hours after running), the car starts instantly and flawlessly every time.

I figure the fuel pressure drops when the car sits for a few days (I seldom use the car every day) and hence the no-start, but while the starter is turning, the fuel pump should run and get the pressure up, so why doesn't the car start with continued cranking (without releasing the key and cranking a second time)?

Thanks,
Bob