New Frontline LE60: V8-engined MGB restomod unveiled with 375bhp
MG specialist Frontline has created a re-engineered MGB with a 4.8-litre Rover V8, which will be sold alongside an all-electric version
As the industry shifts towards EVs, an increasing number of specialist brands are tapping into the restomod market and producing re-engineered, modernised icons from the past to satisfy cravings for an analogue driving experience. Oxfordshire-based MG specialist Frontline is an established player in the sector, and it’s now unveiled two new MGB-based models: a V8-powered LE60 and an electric version called the BEE, which simulates driving an ICE car with a manual gearbox.
For more than three decades, Frontline has offered restoration and performance upgrade services for classic British sports cars, going on to sell turn-key MGB restomods with more power, uprated suspension and higher standards of finish than the original. The LE60 is the firm’s most powerful creation yet, thanks to a 375bhp 4.8-litre Rover V8 with bespoke internals. This drives through a Tremec five-speed manual gearbox and a limited-slip differential, with a beefier brake package (six-pot calipers at the front, four at the rear) and modern Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres coming as standard.
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Beginning with an MGB donor car, Frontline applies chassis strengthening measures and specially-tuned Nitron coilovers to cope with the huge increase in power (an original MGB GT V8 produces 137bhp), while updating the solid rear axle with a six-link setup for better ride quality and control. With an improved roll centre, modified front geometry and adjustable power steering, the LE60 aims to offer a far higher level of cornering performance and sophistication than the base MGB. With the car’s weight measured at 1122kg (dry), straight line performance has also taken a significant leap with a 4sec 0-60mph sprint and a 170mph top speed.
The MGB’s Pininfarina-penned bodywork is largely intact in the transition to LE60-spec, but Frontine has removed weak joints in the body structure with a de-seaming process, with wide-track suspension and larger 16-inch wheels hinting at the restomod’s extra potential.
Customers can choose from a number of bespoke exterior paint finishes, with personalisation requests also extending to the interior through a selection of leather, Alcantara, wood and aluminium trim options. The cabin is lined with 25kg of sound deadening, and the LE60 comes equipped with a host of modern touches such as Bluetooth connectivity, a specially-calibrated sound system and LED headlights.
Similar modifications carry across to the fully-electric BEE model, which uses a 121bhp electric motor powered by a 40kWh battery pack integrated into its classic bodyshell. Weighing 1186kg, the EV reaches 60mph in 8.8sec and runs to a 120mph top speed; Frontline has calibrated its power delivery to emulate that of a combustion engine car, and the specially-tuned torque curve works in tandem with a five-speed manual gearbox to deliver a more analogue driving experience. The battery pack is split into seven units for an even weight distribution across both axles, with 140 miles achievable from a full charge.
Pricing hasn’t been disclosed for either model, but the LE60 is exclusively available as a coupe and limited to just 30 units. The BEE, on the other hand, can be ordered as a hardtop or a roadster, and owners of previous Frontline models can convert their cars to fully-electric with the same hardware if they choose.
