Does this work or not? Is there a need for me to totally upgrade the entire headlight on my 1994 E420, or is using an ECE lens on a DOT headlight basically the same thing?

How much of a difference is there (can it be quantified) between the DOT headlight and ECE headlight for model years 1994 and 1995. I know that the <1993 W124 DOT headlight SUCK, and as such, the ECE is a huge improvement. Is such an improvement observable with the 1994 headlights?

Is there a need for me to shoot for E500 headlights (with pencil beams), or should I stick with the standard E420 (with fog lights)

I’ve already stated communication with PUMA to get an idea on pricing and availability on the headlights.

Thanks for any help.

'94 on, 124 was first year where Benz finally got some decent glass lens with Euro style patterns. I have changed E320s to Euro lens and made wall comparisions, with very little difference in the findings ..
Both E codes and DOT have horz cut-off and right angle focus ..
not worth the change ..
Lamps are H4s for both ..

Pre face-lift 124s [ before '94] will be a great improvement, but not 94/95 models.

One will also notice that the DOT reflectors have the City lamp cut-out hole, indicating reflector is same..

You will have a hard time telling any difference... at least, that is what I have found.

Thanks Arthur, that’s exactly the information I am looking for (and somewhat expeced). So there really isn’t a reason to replace the entire headlight. Since I have a cracked lens I might as well switch to ECE glass (assuming this is possible) - don’t you think?

If the reflector bowl and other internals are pretty much the same, if I move to a relayed harness, ceramic H4 connector, and 80/100 bulb I should be in business. Agreed?


What are the part numbers for the city lamp socket? I might as well activate those, no?

94/95 lights are just fine. The only upgrade that I'd suggest is getting some genuine OSRAM silverstar +50% bulbs. They really make a difference, and they're safe for wiring (unlike some of the higher wattage bulbs that can fry it).

Troy K.
1995 E420 84k

If you need lens anyway, then I would do the ECE , as they did have a slightly better , more defined pattern.. as far as lamps are concerned , Ihave no problem with stock H4s..
Remember, your old lens have road hash , [ wether you see it or not] and new glass will be noticably brighter..

I would also try those +50%s before going with wiring changes [as Troy suggest]
I was thinking of them myself, but for my driving, not needed at all....

The most important factor with lens that do have definate patterns is , of course, proper aiming/alignment..

See archive for article I submitted somewhere in there...

$69 For ECE Non-E500 Headlight lens a reasonable price?

I think I am going to get a pair and slap them on.

Any recommendations on an adhesive film or something to put over the glass? I want to keep these lens' nice and clear. Such films have no adverse side affects right (like on the wipers or something)? Where can I get some?