Why do old-school race cars have tape in the shape of a cross over their headlights?

Question

Especially rally cars such as old Alfa-Romeos etc.

Answer 1

So when the crash, the glass doesn't go everywhere.

Answer 2

Older cars have a lot of vibration and putting tape across the glass supposedly kept them from breaking from the vibration.

When movers move large mirrors and when stores are protecting large windows from wind, you will see them put a large X of tape across the glass for the same reason.

Answer 3

Without looking at previous answers, it is to keep the glass from breaking and falling out in case a rock hits the lens.

Answer 4

So the glass won't break.