Engine Shaking & low power – 2000 s70 FWD Base Model | SwedeSpeed

Long story short I purchased a vehicle as-is, and the first mechanic I brought it to did not do much in the sense of diagnostics. After 2 months of not being able to get much communication, I nearly lost hope in getting the car back and buying used cars as a whole. However, I was able to finally get the car out of the shop, and am still trying to get them to communicate exactly what was done so that I can at least have some peace of mind. Not that I think much good will come of it.

I have a deep appreciation for Volvo and some of the older models, and having been attracted to the brand for such a long time i’ve decided to commit to the project. Having seen the car in person it was exactly what I was looking for.

I am interested in repairing or restoring it depending according to what wisdom the internet can provide me on these forums, however as this is supposed to be my primary driver and first vehicle, I’d also like to get it up and running sooner rather than later. Below are some more details for anyone who is able to give some feedback.

Vehicle Details:

Model: Volvo S70 2000
Engine: B5244S (FWD, Non-Turbo)
Mileage: 425,500 km

Current Symptoms:

Engine Shaking: Engine shakes back and forward between driver seat and front bumper. Bad cylinder is the current suspected culprit.
Cylinder pressure issues (low & no compression in two cylinders).
General engine underperformance potentially related to these issues.

Work Completed and Mechanics Involved:

Mechanic 1: Disappointing experience. They kept the car for an extended period, barely ran diagnostics, and charged me for a filter change and a vague diagnostic about fuel line discontinuity. Can address this more later, still gathering more myself.

Mechanic 2: Discovered no pressure in one cylinder and low pressure in another, while the other three seem fine. Recommended finding a replacement engine with a solid maintenance history and reasonable mileage. I also intend to replace all the engine mounts at the same time.

Mechanic 3: Another option is a third mechanic, recommended through a friend. They can perform the swap and engine mount replacements, but the car will need to be towed there.

Looking for Advice: I’m open to:

Engine Swap: Find a compatible engine with a solid maintenance record and low mileage.
Engine Repair Kit: Rebuild the engine, though costs may approach those of an engine swap.

Stage 0 Plan: I’m also considering performing a Stage 0 to restore the car to optimal functionality by addressing all wear-and-tear items, from vacuum lines to sensors and fluids. Any feedback on this approach, especially regarding prioritization or common pitfalls, would be greatly appreciated.

I am also interested and open to replacing things such as engine mounts as mine have all gone bad or are damaged, and any other things suggested.

Before moving forward; I am:

Looking for suggestions for further testing or inspections before committing to a rebuild or swap.
Insights on the cost-effectiveness of a swap versus an engine rebuild.
Feedback on executing a Stage 0 restoration and its potential impact.

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Quick Summary:
Facing cylinder pressure issues on my Volvo S70 2000. Mechanic 2 recommends either finding a replacement engine or rebuilding the current one. Also considering a Stage 0 to restore the car.

Open to advice on the best course of action.