No, I wouldn't say that. Hella lights are very good, and I have not used the IPF's long enough to know for sure how they will last.
For example, race teams that run Hellas do modifications to address the issues I have mentioned.
It is just the challenge of building a product for the...
I have used the Hella's (non-HID) extensively for the past ten years (500's, 3000's, 4000's, matadors, Optios). The numerous glass and body failures prompted the change to IPF's.
Here is a list of what I have had go wrong with the Hella's
1. 4000- glass crack, bezel ring screws come loose...
I used the 170's in Africa and they work great as a pencil beam (or favoring pencil). Since they are an adjustable beam, that compromises pattern accuracy in my experience. As a driving there are too many hot/cool spots for my taste.
170's however are bullet proof though, very reliable and...