Woody-

A buddy of mine had a set of Bosch H4 (euro) lights on his Scirroco,
(which, ironically, are the SAME lights as the 1986+ Vanagon). The
difference was incredible.

Remember back in grade school when the teacher would start a film, and it
would be out of focus, and the whole class would groan...then she would
adjust the focus, and you would feel collective relief? Same thing with
these lights. It isn't that they are tremendously brighter, (unless you
purchase higher wattage bulbs). The light is focussed on WHERE YOU WANT TO
SEE.

On his lights, there was a CLEARLY visible dividing line between
illuminated area, and non-illuminated areas. The illuminated area was
perfectly where you wish to see, and the rest was dark. U.S.A.-issue
headlights spill (waste) light in areas that don't matter.

While I haven't purchased a set yet for myself  for our Vanagon, (we are
pursuing a home purchase), I will in the near future. They are worth every
dime. Further, if you are the type to bend the rules a bit, a 55w/150w bulb
makes a HUGE difference when in desolate areas (use a relay).

Hope I shed some light on your question...

G. Matthew Bulley
Director
Bulley-Hewlett & Associates
www.bulley-hewlett.com
Cary, NC USA
888.468.4880 tollfree

-----Original Message-----
From:   Woody Halsey [SMTP:WoodyHalsey@COMPUSERVE.COM]
Sent:   Saturday, November 06, 1999 10:56 AM
To:     vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject:        headlights

Dear List,

I have followed with interest and puzzlement the comments about Bosch
headlights. What is the point? To get brighter lights or more attractive
lights?

Woody