Headlamp guidance/suggestions needed

[michaelaiellosr]

This is what I have on both sides. Along with a pair of Hella 7" H4s the project came with little in the way of headlight assemblies , so I am free to select anything that would fit in the buckets. Looking for some suggestions and maybe a guess on cost. Not critical that they be correct for a US 72. Am really up in the air on what course to take, but whichever course it is I would need everything. Appreciate any help. Mike

[NeunElf]

In 1972 US-spec 911s came with "sugar scoop" headlights with 7" sealed beams. Rest-of-World 911s came with non-sealed beam H4 units (911.631.102.00).

A quick look at the usual websites shows that H4s are available from the usual suspects:

• Sierra Madre Collection $358.65
• Stoddards $405.02
• Pelican Parts $388.50

There are also Bosch branded versions at different prices.

Those usual suppliers don't seem to have the "sugar scoop" assemblies. You might be able to get used ones from:

• European Auto Salvage Yard (EASY)
• Unobtanium
• e-bay, swap meets, classifieds, etc.

It seems Porsche never assigned a part number to the "sugar scoop" assembly--the parts have 9 or so separate part numbers.

The usual suspects also sell the European-style non-sealed beam assembly which is correct for '65 through '67 911s only. Most registry members would realize they're "wrong" for a '72. They probably fit (I don't guarantee that) and they cost less than the "correct" H4s. You can now buy H4 bulbs with P45t bases to fit them.

If you're really cheap, you might be able to mount Volkswagen assemblies. A previous owner managed that on my '65--I got correct units long go.

The last possible choice might be H1s which were introduced in '68 and replaced by H4s in '72, shortly after the H4 bulb was introduced. These are really, really rare. The price might be over $ 1,000 each--if you can find them.

[37yrold911]

the ugliest mounting is the sugar scoops

the coolest looking are Cibie Biodes

the best performance would be some odd-looking LED-based lights, followed by the H1's

H4's are likely the best compromise among performance, looks, and cost

[NeunElf]

John Audette posts a lot on this forum and he's taken an interest (possibly an obsession) with headlights into a side business. You should check his website http://www.audettecollection.com/

[boxster03]

IMO go H4 lights for performance / cost / availability / correct look

[michaelaiellosr]

Thanks guys....all good info. I did uncover some more goodies, well one more goodie only and a couple of nice chrome trim/retaining rings.

[jaudette3]

H1's are the coolest and offer best performance, but they're also the most expensive ($1,800 for a fully restored set). Boxster03 is spot on - H4's for looks, performance and value. I'm in the process of building five sets of H4's with restored original Bosch reflectors. Three are spoken for, pricing $800-$850. PM me for more information or call me (phone number on my website) if you are interested.

Cheers,
John

[72Group4]

I use an older set of amber Carello JODs, twin bulbs. Would be interesting to know how they compare against other types.