1997 BMW 318IS starts for a few seconds then dies

I have spark fuel pressure I can actually feel the pump working but it starts and a second later shuts of really quick can was bought at auction was running when removed from tow truck

I would start with the fuel filter. Not only is it the cheapest part but it is usually the part that clogs or causes start up issues. When was the last time your DISA valve was changed on the intake manifold?

i just bought the car as is cuz it's so clean in and out and I know it's something easy crank and cam sensors we're change and so was fuel pump but filter looks like it wasn't, otherwise it's it seems like it wants to stay running for a second then dies

Disa valve? Where is that located? Is that the one that has a flap inside the lower intake?

It is located on the driver side of the engine bay, just above the intake tubing. Please see attached diagram and pictures.

.

..

The DISA valve can give your BMW the most idle/run/startup issues, and is the most expensive to replace. That's why my recommendation was to start at the fuel filter. However, if you pull your DISA valve out and it is all gummed up with gunk, you can try cleaning it, just make sure to clear your OBDII codes before you start your vehicle. The DISA valve should be changed out every 90,000 miles or so, give or take.