Minivan safety

I have just recently started researching info on which mini van would be the safest for my family, and was just wondering what info you could give me. The Windstar is in my pricerange (would love the oddessy just cant afford it) but we will have to buy used. Probably 2000- 2001 if we find a good deal. What are the safety factors on the older models, and what if we cant find one with the optional side airbags? Is it still considered one of the safest?

Thanks for any info you can give.

Also see our web page:

www.car-safety.org/minivan.html

The 2000-2001 Windstar would be a very safe choice. Plus, even the 2000 model will have a great array of LATCH and tether locations if you have carseats.

Unfortunately, the optional side airbags are hard to find on anything but loaded, top-of-the line Windstars and Siennas. Dealers rarely order lower models with those options, so the only ones out there are probably custom orders.

Good luck!