UK-based restoration specialist Frontline Cars has unveiled a couple of restomods based on the classic car known as the MGB, produced by the MG Motor Company back in the 1960s and ‘70s. According to Motor1, it will be driven at the rear wheels by either a V8 or an electric motor.
The petrol version is called LE60, a reference to the original MGB model turning sixty this year. It utilizes a 4.8-liter Rover V8, getting 375 PS (370 hp / 276 kW) and 403 Nm (297 lb-ft) of torque out of it. This is nearly three times as much power as the original had.
A five-speed Tremec gearbox sends the momentum to the back through a limited-slip differential, letting the restomod reach 100 km/h (62 mph) from standstill in around four seconds. The new car has a wider body and wheel span compared to its predecessor and weighs a low 1,122 kg (2,474 pounds). More importantly still, it boasts a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution ratio. Only 30 will be made.
The battery-electric version is called BEE and is obtainable in coupe and roadster flavors. Its sole motor makes a humble 114 PS (112 hp / 84 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque, and the battery is rather modest at 40 kilowatt-hours of capacity. This allows the car to tip the scales at 1,186 kilos (2,615 pounds) and also have a near-ideal weight distribution between the axles. A full charge takes slightly more than five hours, but we don’t know what the range is.
Frontline Cars plans to bring both vehicles for their public debut at the Bicester Heritage Sunday Scramble even in the UK on October 8, 2023. The company says classic MGB owners may order their existing sports cars converted to electric power instead of having to buy a separate restomod.