I am interested in this thread.
More hard data + pictures if posible please.








Thank you.

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1985 300SD
1983 300D
2003 Volvo V70

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Actually, not using a seat belt and having an air bag can be a deadly combination. The occupant will have a tendency to ride over the airbag when deployed and hit their head on the front windshield crossmember. Without the air bag, the occupant would go through the windshield, which actually gave less than the crossmember. (However, IMO, that is no BFD).
MB did a lot of research into air bags, and from what was told to me years ago (when I got my first MB), that is one reason the steering column does not adjust up and down, only in or out.
Granted the early air bags were either on or off, verses the variable deployment designs of today, but unless you are crowding the steering wheel, you will be safer (provided you are using a seat belt)
I do like the ABS on my cars, and highly recommend it, especially for someone like your mother.
As to the choice between a VW and Benz.....hands down safety is the Benz...

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87 300SDL - 215K Miles !!
99 F-350CC Dually PSD - 190K
86 300SDL - 189K
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