Ford Repair: blown motor, ford ranger, standard transmission

Question
I have a 93 Ford Ranger.  1.6L engine (I believe) and standard transmission.  Replaced the starter about 3-4 months ago.  Ocassionally would still have problems starting--would make the sounds of starting but just would not turn over and actually start.  Could push start or would eventually start after 5-10 min of trying.  Finally the other day would not start at all.  Towed to mechanic and they said that the motor was blown--only has 80-85 psi and needs at least 135psi to start. Does this sound like an accurate assesment of the problem?  Or am I being taken for a ride?  Could it be something less expensive?

Answer
Hello and thanks for the question...I'll try to help.
If all of the cylinders are reading the same....it should start. It has compression. I would look around at other places for another opinion for the cause. I'm NOT saying that it isn't THE problem......BUT.......it should start.
Erik