E30 Euro Smiley headlight options... also grills

[Keechy E36]

Hello, are the Depo brand euro lights on eBay that are around $160 good quality? I'd rather not spend $400+ on OEM ones.


Also euro headlight grills, are these necessary for any reason, and if not whats the difference?

Thanks for any help, its been probably 5-10 years since my last post

[Keechy E36]

I see what the difference between the grills are.....but still would like to know what anyone thinks of the depo lights

[ELVA164]

This has been discussed about a billion times and is searchable, but they're...fine. Are they as good as originals? No. Are they as expensive? No.

Euro grilles have a slightly different look due to the top couple slots being filled in. They're also cut at the top of the low beams to make room for the city light connectors. They aren't necessary, but they help and they look better.

In my opinion, the best option is a used set of Bosch smilies. They have metal reflectors instead of the plastic Hella ones and they have the higher build quality. I bought a set, cleaned them a little, and they're great. If they're foggy they probably need to be sealed.

[richardodn]

And if all you're looking for is better lighting, I highly recommend the Hella E-code replacements. They mount in the existing buckets and require an adapter harness for the high beams. ClassicGarage has the kit for under $170. http://classicgarage.com/53hehekit.html

[Keechy E36]

thanks for the reply. I might go cheap and grab the Depo, I know its a different car but had them on my E36 for over 10 years. I believe the "seal" on them isnt the greatest, but i can figure something out.


Biggest thing now is finding out how im going to, and what its going to cost do to a 5 speed swap. I'm a bit worried about the auto diff, and the little bit ive looked up LSD arent cheap...but i would really like a lower gear ratio(stock 4.10?)... friend does have a trans sitting around he said i could grab(from a s52/54 sawp) and I'd like to think he'll do the labor at a very reasonable price as he's a good friend of mine.....Technica Motorsports here i come...lol