CAR HEADLIGHT QUESTION?Please help if you know this answer?

Hi, I drive a 1997 Ford Escort, best car I ever had. I would like to get thru another Winter in this car which runs well but..I thought my eyes were having problems as I could not see well to drive in the dark..NO, I recently rented a 2011 car fr a long trip and I could see FINE. My Escorts headlights are dim. How about those cars that have those blinding blue-ish and very bright bulbs? Could I have bulbs like that installed in my Escort for better night vision? and if so, what would I ask for?? thanks for any answers.. take care.