Jim,
>but I do believe that 'bigger is safer' is more myth than fact when it comes to SUVs versus cars.
I think you are right, check this out
http://www.nationmaster.com/encyclopedia/SUV/Other_names#Safety[Update] from the link
"SUV safety concerns are compounded by a perception among some consumers that SUVs are safer for their drivers than standard autos. According to G. C. Rapaille, a psychological consultant to automakers (as cited in Gladwell, 2004), many consumers feel safer in SUVs simply because their ride height makes "[their passengers] higher and dominate and look down (sic). That you can look down [on other people] is psychologically a very powerful notion." This and the massive size and weight of SUVs may lead to consumers' false perception of safety (Gladwell, 2004)"
"The five senses obstruct or deform the apprehension of reality."
Jorge L. Borges?
"Premature optimization is the root of all evil in programming."
Donald Knuth, repeating C. A. R. Hoare
"To die for a religion is easier than to live it absolutely"
Jorge L. Borges