My friend has a1990 model 318 that just goes dead while driving you can set there for the count of 25 and then crank it up. He has changed water pump timing chain filter, retimed it new coil new fuel pump we don't know what to do next

 

You need compression. ignition and fuel to run. I say you could eliminate compression. As far as when it dies take a look down the carb and see if it's getting fuel from the accelerator pump while opening and closing the throttle. If that is good, it's ignition. Pull the coil and see and listen for a spark as you arc it across metal while cranking.

 

check the grounds to the VR, as well. that goes, the car shuts down.