Datsun 1200's are a deathtrap. There is no denying it. They go like hell (With a bit of encouragement) and have very littlle structural integrity. My advise is dont crash.
My oldest freind in the whole world, (Known him for 27 years) had to be cut out of a 1200 coupe on the way home from the pub. Forget safety. They go fast 'cos they weigh fvck all. which makes them easy to go fast. feed your dad some bullsh!t, and tell him they safe as can be.