If it were me, I would only get a car with the LATCH anchors. Sooo much easier getting car seats in and out. I believe they were required on cars 2002 and up.
As far as safety, you could go balls out and get a big azz SUV with airbags galore and plenty of "crush zone."
But then you'd have a big truck that's marginal, at best, in avoiding collisions and evasive maneuvering.
Honestly, I trust the trunk of the B13 as a "crush zone" more than the back of my 05 hatchback Civic. Place the seat in the middle and you've got a cozy little pod.
Crash worthiness goes beyond what 'appears' safe. Search for antique car crash video.