Sometimes car doesn't start, "Diesels" at begining

Sometimes when I try to start my 1997, it doesn't start. I have to try a few times and it will eventually start.

I remember my moms car in the 60's used to "diesel" sometimes. That is when she shut it off, it kind of ran for some seconds afterwards. It wasn't really running, kind of chugging.

This is what mine does, except it's when I try to start it, not stop. The Dash Idiot Lights stay on since it's not running at a level you'd say it's running. Chung, chug-chug, chug-chug-chug, lower RPM then what idol is.

It will usually do that for some seconds, then stop. I have to try and start it again. After a few times it starts. Other times it starts just like it should.

None of my mechanic friends know what could be wrong.

Does this make sense to anyone? Any idea's what to try first? Other then this, the car runs very good.

Thanks for any help,
Chris.