Early air bags are powerful enough to catch an _UNBELTED_average height / weight male. As a result they are very fast and powerful.

Long ago ( like 95 when I bought the car for them. ) I disconnected the high power bag on Mom and Dads 91 Dodge Spirit as the car is used only round town. They always wear belts so it is worth the risk as a low speed get hurt by bags is more likely than a interstate crash. ( They still have the car. ) Their 99 Blazer and future 97 C280 has the bags connected as they are depowered.

Air bags are not a wonder safety device. If you are wearing belts and don't hit the steering wheel they won't do much. Side bags are much more useful as one is closer to the doors , A pillar and side glass.