car starts then dies

what type of gas you use

OK, so we're not all gurus.... Now, getting back to your question. The symptoms sound a lot like a failed fuel pump although that doesn't explain the gas smell. If your fuel filter is ancient it may be leaking although that probably wouldn't prevent it from starting. I'd start there. Turn the key to the run position without trying to start the car. You should hear the fuel pump run for a few seconds. If you don't that's going to be the problem. It could also be several other electronic things which can possibly be identified by having it scanned for trouble codes.