If he said he wants to date you, he undoubtedly meant it. We don't show it as much, but guys often have pretty complex emotions, too. Just because he can't instantly forget about a girl he's dated in the past doesn't mean he's not interested in you.

Date him. If you're afraid of rushing into a relationship, tell him you want to go out with him a few times before making it official. But if you like each other, anything OTHER than going out is counter productive.