The 126 was the first production car to offer ABS brakes and SRS airbags as options. Mercedes invented "crumple zones" and "passenger cells" as well as the "three point" seat belt. In 1989 the 126 won the award (Highway Institute) for safest car because of the optional airbags and antilock brakes.

The 126 is truly an AMAZING car in all of automotive history!

Cool 126 site (takes 8 secs. to load)
http://www.geocities.com/w126s/