I don’t think anyone suggested they didn’t know what web 1.0 is, so there’s no need to be that guy.
No, there’s no way to visually and functionally impair Discourse to the extent you’re asking. Discourse is a single page JavaScript application, not a collection of php pages.
From the about page:
What’s different about it?
Discourse is a from-scratch reboot, an attempt to reimagine what a modern Internet discussion forum should be today, in a world of ubiquitous smartphones, tablets, Facebook, and Twitter.
The emphasis is on modern.
And:
What are the minimum browser requirements?
Discourse is designed for the next 10 years of the Internet, so the minimum browser requirements are high.
If you’re looking for a more antiquated interface then Discourse probably isn’t the right fit for you.