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Best way to improve headlamp output:
1) E-code lenses. The European spec lenses will cost $250 for a pair, but will focus more light below a horizon line, down onto the road. USDOT lenses have an overly diffuse pattern that results in a fuzzy glow aimed at nothing in particular; half the light is lost overhead. On top of that, the Volvo implementation of DOT is pathetic.
2) Higher output halogen lamps are the cheapest option. Examples are Osram Sylvania SilverStar, Philips Premium or BlueVision, and Hella LightPower. These use a different gas atmsphere and improved filament composition to produce 30% more light on stock 55W current. If you have $400 to spare, convert to HID with an aftermarket kit from Philips or Hella.
3) Add good foglights. There are quite a few good sets available and the best will provide useful around-the-corner illumination at night. I generally recommend Hella MicroDE foglights because they have an exceptionally good pattern (180-degree sweep of light, hard cutoff, even illumination 50' around the car) and since they are 2" round projectors, will match the foglight cutouts on your car. You'll have to be creative in mounting them, but a lot of 850 owners have figured this out without difficulty. Your car is prewired for foglights: just add the OEM switch and relay.
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David \\ (98 S70 T5SE Black, misc mods (mostly lighting), red calipers) (92 940GLE)
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