Doug wasson

Car was running fine. One morning I was heading to work. 2 blocks from home after making a left turn it just started running on 2 or 3 cylinders. No noise proceeded this or any hint that this might happen. Checked plug wires, no problem there, plenty of spark at plugs. Cleaned air flow sensor just in case, no change. Went to my mechanic and he ran compression test and found the low cylinders. Idles really rough at about 500 rpm tries to quit, used to idle smooth at 800 rpm. Up at 2500 to 3000 rpm it runs with plenty of power. I am living in an apartment complex so there is no way to put the car up to the point where the engine and transmission can be dropped to do heavy duty work it. Can't afford to have a shop do that work, only paid $400.00 for car. Estimates run from $1500 to $3500. Love the car but ain't got that kind of $$$$.

1996 Legacy outback EJ22 engine. Low compression in #1&3 cylinders (75psi). #2&4 (175psi). No smoke, no oil in water, no water in oil. Tried Bars Gasket Sealer no joy. Plug wires are new as are plugs. No over heating. WTF is wrong? HELP!