Reviving the MGB: Frontline Cars' Masterful Restorations

In the world of automotive enthusiasts, the MGB has long been a beloved classic, capturing the hearts of those seeking a blend of British charm and driving excitement. However, the passage of time has taken its toll on these iconic roadsters, leaving many enthusiasts yearning for a modern interpretation that preserves the essence of the original while infusing it with contemporary performance and luxury. Enter Frontline Cars, a British company that has taken on the challenge of resurrecting the MGB, creating a series of meticulously crafted restorations that are poised to redefine the classic car experience.

Elevating the MGB to New Heights

Bespoke Edition: A Refined Blend of Old and New

Frontline Cars' Bespoke Edition MGB roadster is a testament to the company's commitment to blending the old and the new. Starting with a new reproduction body shell from British Motor Heritage, Frontline's team of skilled technicians meticulously welds the seams, creating a remarkably stiff and solid foundation. The attention to detail extends to the tightened door, hood, and trunk gaps, ensuring a flawless paint finish.Under the hood, the Bespoke Edition boasts a heavily modified 2.0-liter Mazda Miata powertrain, featuring Frontline's own ECU, higher-lift cams, a ported and polished head, and a proprietary intake with individual throttle bodies. The result is a claimed 44-horsepower increase over the stock Miata, along with a 46 pound-feet torque boost and a redline raised to 7,500 rpm. The six-speed transmission shifts with the precision of a Swiss watch, and the clutch take-up is equally smooth.Frontline's engineering prowess extends to the chassis and suspension, with discs all around and coil-over shocks front and rear. The rear-axle setup is a nod to MG's racing heritage, replacing the stock leaf springs with a five-link arrangement and a Panhard rod. This setup not only enhances the car's dynamics but also addresses the inherent shortcomings of the original MGB's handling.Inside, the Bespoke Edition is a study in bespoke craftsmanship, with handmade bucket seats tailored to the customer's specifications. The sheet-aluminum frames are expertly rolled and beaded, then swathed in high-quality upholstery. Power windows and a premium Morel audio system complete the luxurious cabin.

LE60 Factory Edition: A Thunderous V8 Transformation

For those seeking even more performance, Frontline offers the LE60 Factory Edition, a V8-powered MGB GT that takes the classic coupe to new heights. Powered by a 4.8-liter Rover/Buick V8 engine producing 375 horsepower and 312 pound-feet of torque, the LE60 is a true wolf in sheep's clothing.Frontline has engineered its own cylinder heads and induction system for this potent powerplant, which is mated to a Tremec five-speed transmission and a Quaife limited-slip differential. The suspension has been upgraded with fully adjustable Nitron shocks, similar to those found on certain Porsche and Lotus models, while six-piston front calipers and 16-inch Dunlop-style alloys with knockoff spinners complete the package.The LE60's brute force is immediately apparent, with the car launching hard under throttle like a little British NASCAR racer. The steering is heavier and less delicate than the Bespoke Edition, and the suspension is tuned for maximum grip, resulting in a more track-focused driving experience. While the subtlety of the Bespoke may be lost, the LE60 delivers a thrilling and unapologetic performance that no factory MGB could ever match.

Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future

Frontline Cars' commitment to the MGB goes beyond simply restoring these classic roadsters. The company also offers a range of upgrade kits, allowing owners to enhance the performance and handling of their existing MGBs without the need for a full-blown restoration.One such kit is the company's bolt-on rear suspension upgrade, which replaces the stock leaf springs with a five-link setup and a Panhard rod. This transformation, which costs $3,295 through Moss Motors, is designed to address the MGB's inherent dynamic shortcomings and transform the driving experience.Frontline's approach to the MGB is not just about creating high-end restorations; it's about preserving the essence of this iconic British sports car while infusing it with modern technology and performance. By offering both complete restorations and upgrade kits, the company is ensuring that the MGB can continue to thrive and captivate enthusiasts for generations to come.

A Waiting List Worth the Wait

The demand for Frontline's MGB creations is a testament to the company's craftsmanship and the enduring appeal of the MGB. With a two-year waiting list, Frontline is clearly meeting the needs of a discerning clientele who are willing to invest in a truly bespoke and exceptional driving experience.While the company's powertrain upgrades are not sold separately, this decision is driven by Frontline's commitment to safety and the preservation of the MGB's legacy. The team believes that bolting their high-performance engines into older, potentially unsafe MGBs could be dangerous, and they want to ensure that their creations are built to the highest standards.Ultimately, Frontline Cars' MGB restorations represent a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to own a piece of automotive history that has been elevated to new heights. Whether it's the refined Bespoke Edition or the thunderous LE60 Factory Edition, these cars offer a driving experience that seamlessly blends the past and the present, creating a truly captivating and unforgettable experience for the lucky few who can secure one.