The engine cranks very easily, right? Try starting again, but this time push the gas peddle all the way to the floor while cranking. That tells the ECU you have a flooded engine and it will not supply gas. Keep cranking even if it stutters. Once the engine catches, let it idle at 2000 rpm until it cleans itself out.
The "lawn mower" syndrome: Start the car, move it about 5 feet to get room to move the lawn mower out of the garage, and then turn the car off. That gives the hydraulic lifters just enough pressure to open the valves and you wind up with no compression when you try to restart. Cranking the starter will slowly build oil pressure and begin moving the valve lifters.

Make sense?

Now, for the torx screws holding down the top engine cover. What a pain! If one is stripped, do not even bother with trying to undo the others. Some have suggested using a dremmel and cutting a groove in the top of the screw, but a lot of torque is needed to break the screw loose. They all need to be "hammered" free or broken loose. Lots of suggestions, all valid, but up to you to try.
Before you put the top cover back, get some small thin washers to fit on the tors screws. That will make it easier the next time.

Klaus
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1975 164 w/174,800mi (Sold) 1995 850T w/91,000mi, 1998 V70R w/129,000mi