It's impossible to argue with the proven life saving statistics in favor of air bags. They have saved lives, period. You are statistically safer with them than without them. It's a fact.

That said, forget about an airbag retrofit. It's absolutely not practical. It would cost more than what even the very nicest low mileage 123 car can be worth.

If you want them, it's time to consider a later model car. The 124's are now down in cost, and they all have a drivers side airbag, at least I know the '88 does.

Good luck,