Safety Options to Consider
Some of these items may be standard on all new cars, but are mentioned here in case you're looking at used cars.

 

OnStar Some car companies may have a similar system. List of vehicles with OnStar as an option

Side airbags

Auto dimming rearview mirror (electrochromic)

Intermittent wipers

Anti-lock brakes (ABS)

Color (Is the car easy for others to see, particularly in poor lighting?)

Four wheel disk brakes (Depending on the car, this may or may not give shorter stopping distances.)

Daytime running lights: let others see you better in daylight

Traction control systems may be able to sense when you're starting to slide in very slippery conditions and give some correction.

Head restraints for rear seat passengers

Childproof rear door locks

ISOFIX child seat mounting system: makes it easier to install a child seat. May be referred to as LatCH (Lower Anchors and Tether for Children).

Whiplash protection system: designed to absorb some of the energy typically involved in a crash to reduce whiplash

Headlight delay: leaves headlights on for a little while after you leave your car

 

Not necessarily car options, but related:

Visibility: can you see well all the way around you? Are there bad blind spots? Do the mirrors seem to give you a wide enough view? Do the seats let you sit up high enough?

Ergonomics: Is the seating position one where you feel comfortable, relaxed and in control? Are the steering and brakes easy to reach?

If you must use a cell phone while driving, some type of hands free option.

 

 

see also: Government crash test results for 2004 cars