car problem

you mean it backfires when you step on gas pedal? that would suggest it is running to lean. not enough gas.

maybe something else happened not related to running out of gas? maybe you didn't actually run out of gas? a timing belt issue or ignition module issue?

You have a timing chain on that car you should check your fuel pressure to see if your getting enough pressure.One thing that goes bad really common on that car is the coolant temp sensor that cause's no start's hard start's surging dieing and no start's etc.It's screwed into your cylinder head right where your upper hose goes on there are two it would be the bottom one with two wire's going to it.I would also inspect the connector going to it if it's corroded you will have to replace the connector going to it.