While you fellows are discussing the merits of crumple zones and the capability (or lack thereof) of front wheel drive, I remain curious as to the original question with a slight modification:

IF you are wearing your seat belt and shoulder harness, as they were designed, did an air bag lessen the severity of your injuries in any way?

If so, I would like to understand exactly how it did that, considering that it would be difficult for you to contact the air bag if the shoulder harness is functioning properly.

I don't think there is any disagreement regarding air bags for those individuals who choose NOT to wear seat belts or shoulder harnesses. They will clearly save your life.

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








Thank you.

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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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I know this would be the case for me. I have very short legs, which means I have to have the seat really far forward. Without an airbag I would probably plant my face square on the steering wheel.

-J

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