Headlight Upgrade Recommendations ('73 CS)

[ES 1800]

(Maybe having a specific post will help others looking for this in the future.)

I would like upgrade recommendations for lens/bulb combinations:

* Low beams
* High beams

I've done the Daniel Stern wiring upgrade and am currently using halogens. While I believe the low beams are correctly aimed, they sure do not cast much light in a land where whitetail deer are prevalent. The high beams are pretty good. (Maybe the headlights on newly manufactured cars has just spoiled us?)

Here's what I have learned about bulbs from Google AI:

But @HB Chris says one needs to consider the lenses too.

I've looked at what is available at https://vintagecarleds.com/ and my response is best described as HOLY COW! $130 TO $471 per pair!

 

[rsporsche]

who's fixtures are you using ... there is a difference. i personally like Marchal, Cibie + Hella ... probably in that order. the next thing for consideration is that the h1 low beams are better than h4 low beams. its also an easier bulb to use higher wattage bulbs. the only change you need to make is a wiring change at the dip switch - it is described in the FAQ - Wiring by @HB Chris

 

[sfdon]

Well- appears Google AI answer is once again faulty.

The common usage for the H1 bulb and H1 lamps for coupes in Europe is the low beam and the high beam. Proof of that is the spot in every toolbox that holds exactly an H1 bulb.

Additionally, the thought that the H1 bulb has one pin, and the H4 bulb has three prongs is faulty at best.

The H one bulb has a spade connector for the filament and a ground connector

What you should notice is that the low beam light is spread across a wider area than the high beams which are focused directly in front of the car.

 

[rsporsche]

yes, that's correct, mainly due to the refraction of the lenses to send more light sideways. my recent complaint about the LED lights in my audi tts on a super twisty mountain road - all of the light was out front with minimal spread for the corners.