Frontline Cars Announce Restomod MGBs
Oxfordshire based renowned MG restomod specialist Frontline Cars (Frontline) has revealed its latest offerings to the automotive world: the LE60 and BEE EV Editions, ahead of their public global debuts at the upcoming Bicester Heritage Sunday Scramble on 8 October.
Founded in 1991 under the name Frontline Developments, then changing to Frontline Cars in 2023, Frontline was born to follow a single brief: to build on and elevate the driving experience of classic MG cars. Having been in the game for over 30 years, Frontline has achieved that mission and established itself as a marque specialist, appreciating the history of MG while implementing modern technology. With 2023 marking the centenary of MG and 60 years of the MGB, Frontline is launching two tributes to the MGB and MGB GT in the form of the LE60 and BEE EV Editions.
LE60 - V8 Engined MGB
As the successor to the LE50, the LE60 is the first car from the brand to use a V8 engine - an all-new 4.8 litre Rover V8 to be exact. This produces triple the power of the original MGB at 375bhp and is mated to a five-speed gearbox as well as other upgrades giving it an estimated 0-60mph time of 4 seconds. It has a widened track and body, strengthened chassis to cope with the extra power and stronger braking set up housed underneath 16-inch alloy wheels. As well as this, there’s a brand new bespoke suspension setup created in collaboration with Nitron. The LE60 has a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, weighing 1,122kg.
BEE - Electric MGB GT
Available in Roadster and Coupe form, the BEE models mark the first time that Frontline has ventured into electrified MGBs. Weighing slightly more than the LE60 at 1,186kg, the BEE models are different to many electrified restomods as they have a manual gearbox. Gear changes have been incorporated to give the car a traditional feel and the motor can be revved with roque characteristics resembling a normal combustion car.
Both models are fitted with a Hyper9 100v motor and 40kWh battery which can charge 100% in just over five hours when using a 7kWh charger.
Tim Fenna, Founder and Chief Engineer of Frontline Cars, said: “The first, the LE60, a tribute to our enduring commitment, is a culmination of years of passion and dedication. It's a testament to the art of restoration and enhancement, a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity. Our journey began over thirty years ago, and today, as we present these special cars, we celebrate every challenge surmounted, every detail perfected, and every dream realised.
“The second is an emblem of our vision for tomorrow and sets us forth on an electrifying path. The BEE model line-up captures the essence of the MG's timeless design while propelling us into a future of sustainable mobility. It's a symbol of progress and a momentous celebration of where we've been, where we are, and where we're headed."
Every customer will receive an invitation to visit the Frontline clubhouse located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. Collaborating closely with the Frontline team, customers can select their preferred exterior and interior colours, as well as explore various customisation choices.
Frontline plan to produce 30 LE60s in total, with deliveries set to start next year. Deliveries of the BEE are set to begin in 2024 and Frontline will also offer electric conversions for existing customers.
Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: Frontline Cars