Xenon headlight price differences B6, B7, B8

[naiku]

I could not find the answer, but am wondering if anyone can tell me why the B7 xenon headlights are so much more expensive than the B6? and even the B8. Looking on ebay just now, I see that typically a single B7 xenon headlight goes for $350+ (I know Jens on here can get everything I need for $800). Looking at B6 xenon headlights, they are on there at $315+ for a pair, and single B8 xenon headlights are listed at around $250+ for one.

Why is that? are the B7 headlights better? more in demand? what gives? With the dark weather lately I am being reminded just how shitty the halogens are and wishing for xenons.

Thanks.

[lowestA4]

Interesting thoughts. Here's my idea:

The B6 are getting old. Most potential upgraders already have found their xenons. The grey S4 bixenon ecodes still cost a lot and are highly demanded in germany as well as in north america. Reconsider (-;
All B8 are still under warranty. Dealers will replace headlights. No real market for used units right now. Prices will grow when the B8 is getting 3 - 4 years old.
The B7 are normal priced IMO. Lots of vehicles around and huge difference between halogens and bixenons.

The prices do not neccessarily reflect the retail prices of the new components. Much more important is the condition of the used housing.

There is an interesting effect with B5 ecodes: As of my experience these housings never lose their value. Their price is permanently high for years. The B5 is a classy vehicle that has many lovers.

[naiku]

Thanks, that does actually make sense. Probably more wrecked B6 around also, adding to the number available, but as you say most B8's still under warranty if their headlight fails.

I am hoping to one day soon be sending you a PM for some B7 bi-xenons!

[Matt@EuropaParts]

Do you mean US spec headlights, or ecodes? Because my B6 S4 ecodes were a helluva lot mroe than $315ish lol

[naiku]

Do you mean US spec headlights, or ecodes? Because my B6 S4 ecodes were a helluva lot mroe than $315ish lol

To be honest, I don't know, I was just browsing eBay and saw pairs of B6 xenons for $315 that were listed as OEM.

[jeff618]

Make sure you check what you're buying... There's a ton of bulbs that state they're xenon but only have a trace of it. They run hot and don't last as long. Look for the xenon with 75% xenon and 25% krypton - proven to be the best mixture of gasses for brightness, whiteness and longevity. They cost more, but they actually have enough xenon in them to make a difference. A lot of shoddy marketing going on in this area.