Oscar,
I removed the vacuum hose from the fuel pressure regulator for exactly five minutes while the car was idling. No fuel came out, so I'm assuming that my FPR is operating correctly. Is this reasonable, or is there another test for a bad FPR?
I wanted to clarify the way it starts. I think my first description was accurate as well, but most of the time it behaves like the following: I turn the key to the start position, the car cranks for a second or two and then starts, but as soon as I release the key to "Run," it dies. I have to give it gas with the pedal while holding the key in the start position to get it started.
Any suggestions? (I plan on cleaning the MAF and throttle body, but I'm thinking there's something else the matter.)