What are "ellipsoid" lamps?

[Jay 535i]

I know I have them, but what does that mean, exactly?

[632 Regal]

means the light shines through a magnifying type glass and is more accurate than a bulb and mirrors

[Jay 535i]

means the light shines through a magnifying type glass and is more accurate than a bulb and mirrors

I recently read a review of the E34 from 1988, and they commented that the ellipsoid lamps enabled BMW to make the bonnet lower. How would that be?

[Paul in NZ]

because until the ellipsoid lamps most headlight were seven inch 175 mm or so

[willobmw]

because until the ellipsoid lamps most headlight were seven inch 175 mm or so

What happened to 5-1/4''?

[Paul in NZ]

look at the e28...one 5/1/4 and one 7 each side.....7 was the headlight

[willobmw]

look at the e28...one 5/1/4 and one 7 each side.....7 was the headlight

Only in Europe. I guess the statement makes sense if you consider that market.
US cars never had that combo. I like it though.