I had purchased blue, xenon look alike bulbs for my 1995 E420, and the light output, although bluish in tone, was not great.

I installed a set of Osram silverstar bulbs, and the difference is noticeable. Brighter on low beams, and MUCH brighter on high beams. The $25 I paid was well worth it. Also - be sure to use the bubble-adjustors on your headlights to get the maximum from your bulbs. Mine needed adjustment.

Troy
1995 E420 88k