Starter issues with 1990 Passat 2.0L (5spd manual)

[nkatter]

OK

The problem I seem to be having is with my starter. When I turn on the ignition one of three things happen: (a) the car starts [unlikely] (b) the starter spins up but doesnt engage with the crankshaft (c) the starter doesnt even spin up

The car eventually starts after about anywhere from 2-25 turns of the ignition.

Any help would be appreciated

Car history:
No accidents
Minor exhaust repair
Burns Oil (goes through a quart about every 800 miles)
No intake, engine, exhaust, suspension or body mods