Headlights Hella or Depo

I’ve finally pulled the trigger on getting the original US Sealed Beam headlights swapped out for some new Euro/WW Composite glass-lens units. The install was super smooth and straightforward. I found a pair of new DEPO headlights on eBay. The new DEPOs came with a janky headlight wiring adapter but, I opted for a OEM-quality install with 2 new 6-pin headlight connectors. The headlights have full functionality including the W3W City Lights which I soldered in.

I have had DEPO lights on other cars, they are fine replacements, espcially for an older car.

I just came across new headlights made by Hella which are look alike VW MK5 versions and installed one to test the beam pattern on my GTI337. It appears that VW MK5 versions are newer one and due to that fact are engineered to put more light on the road. There is no visible cut out in a beam pattern like on OEM versions, but the MK5 look alike seem to be winning on my check list.

Installed new depo sport headlights. Makes the front end look so much better than old faded ones.

Bought DEPO oem ones off rock auto and they are great

Hella offers headlights that function the same as OE but without the BMW stamp and perhaps slightly less bright.

Those HID bulbs are clip H1 housing type and the US style lights won't fit because they are twist 9005/9006 housing. You need the glass depo/zkw/bosch type to fit those H1 bulbs

So I just bought some depo headlights to upgrade form my foggy oem ones. Went for a drive and the low beams seem decently placed, maybe a little high but somewhat dim output. The high beams unfortunately are in the trees and absolutely useless. I’ve used the adjustment screw on the back and I’ve run out of adjustment to bring them down. Photos added for detail. Not sure what to do at this point, disappointed to have spent 400 on lights that might not work out.

I bought depo and i regret.

I myself have the clear depo ones for the 07-08 Type S. I’ve bought 2 sets. First had condensation after a few months and I got into a accident and was why I bought a 2nd set. This 2nd set now also leaks as well after a few months. Not sure exactly where it’s allowing water inside but I’ve already ordered some oem headlights to avoid dealing with this problem. I never had this problem with the 07 oem headlights. I’d say avoid pressure washing the headlights. That may have been my mistake.