Saturn SL1; acceleration problem, gauges died

[Melly9]

Hey all,
I'm stuck at work thanks to this brand new problem I had on my way here. About halfway to work I stopped at a stop sign, my 1995 Saturn SL1 refused to accelerate more than a snails pace! So I pulled over and tried to restart. It grinded and sounded like it was on a death bed until it reluctantly started on the 3rd try.
It still accelerated SUPER slowly and would only reach about 30 mph tops. No odd noises. But everytime I pushed the gas pedal, the RPM meter dropped. Then the MPH and RPM gauges both died.
I drove slowly to work and had to use breakdown lanes around the stop lights and signs. Does anyone know what is causing this? Car is otherwise fine with a full tank and just passed inspection last month.
Of course I'll bring it to a shop eventually (it's the farthest from a payday as possible... go figure), but I'd really like an idea on what this could be.
Thanks!