Why do pop ups exist?

yes that is why, headlights are not very pretty to look at

they also had their own mechanical problems

Federal regulations in the 70s meant headlights had to be at a certain height
US market MGBs have a higher ride height for this reason.

They were an elegant feature for a more civilized age.

Aerodynamic benefits when retracted back in a time when headlights were still reflective bowls six inches across.

>>17785718
>It's not making the car any faster nor any safer.

This is an excellent example of begging the question.

File: Headlights+c2.jpg (350KB, 940x657px) Image search: [Google]

350KB, 940x657px

>>17786051
no

>>17786091
Headlight covers were illegal in the US at the time and all the way until the early '80s.

In the age of sealed beam headlights, it was an easy way to make them aerodynamic.

>>17786098
so it's a result of regulations not aerodynamics