As the originator of this thread; I am convinced of what I already sort of knew in my gut.... A solid passenger compartment and more weight wins in accidents. Seat belts must be worn..... A car designed to pass a labratory crash test is not necessarily safe in the real world.
With all that said.
This morning I bought a 1978 240d 4speed for my daughter to drive as her first car.
This car is so cool...clatter clatter clatter;... she is going to love it! It has all the funk factor she is looking for and Mom & Dad's seal of appoval.