1992 Ford Tempo Problems starting the car

it's likely the starter drive(gear clutch) slipping or the starter bendix(gear thrust mechanism not working)depends on which style starter you have.old all electric or newer semi electric permanent magnet.either of these failures allows the starter to spin but not but not turn engine over.thus the whirring whining sound.although if the starter drive is slipping,although it is engaged with flywheel and attemping to turn engine,it slips and makes a screechy sound.and sometimes it grabs and turns engine for a couple turns then starts slipping.you can buy these parts separately and disassemble starter and repair.always inspect starter motor brushes for wear if you do so.it's 1 of the other possible items that wear out on a starter.