Way before the Mazda MX-5 was around, the British roadsters were the yardstick in terms of bang for the buck open top fun. The MGB was one of the greatest of its era, but these days its hard to find a rust-free example of the breed that runs smooth as well.
This is where British classic vehicle specialist Frontline Developments steps on the scene with what they call MG Abingdon Edition. In all frankness, think of it as an equivalent to the Eagle E-Type or Singer 911 – vintage rides that have been bettered with a few modern bits and bobs but without spoiling the 1960s patina.
First of all, we'll point out that like the two previously mentioned, the MG Abingdon is super expensive compared to a normal B. Specifically, it starts from £95,875, which translates to a whopping $156,000 for gearheads over the pond. But this kind of money is going to get you the best MGB around by a long shot.
Just to name a few highlight features, we'll mention a 2-liter four-cylinder sourced from an NC Mazda MX-5, which is enlarged to a hefty 2.5 liters to produce 304 ponies and 248 lb-ft (336 Nm) of torque. A lot of punch for a small car such as the B, to be frank. As such, 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) comes in a swift 3.8 seconds, which is pretty fast even by modernsportscars supercars standards.
This 1,980 lb (898 kilograms) machine also boasts with a Mazda developed six-speed stick shift. The rear axle may be solid just as on a normal MGB, but Frontline gave it a trick six-link arrangement for extra poise. At the front customers get adjustable coilovers teamed with tubular wishbones for superb handling.
Power brakes are also added, while the retrimmed cabin boasts with things such as lever-type switches, a three-spoke wheel, as well as a versatile stereo unit, satellite navigation, heated seates and air con.
First of all, we'll point out that like the two previously mentioned, the MG Abingdon is super expensive compared to a normal B. Specifically, it starts from £95,875, which translates to a whopping $156,000 for gearheads over the pond. But this kind of money is going to get you the best MGB around by a long shot.
Just to name a few highlight features, we'll mention a 2-liter four-cylinder sourced from an NC Mazda MX-5, which is enlarged to a hefty 2.5 liters to produce 304 ponies and 248 lb-ft (336 Nm) of torque. A lot of punch for a small car such as the B, to be frank. As such, 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) comes in a swift 3.8 seconds, which is pretty fast even by modern
This 1,980 lb (898 kilograms) machine also boasts with a Mazda developed six-speed stick shift. The rear axle may be solid just as on a normal MGB, but Frontline gave it a trick six-link arrangement for extra poise. At the front customers get adjustable coilovers teamed with tubular wishbones for superb handling.
Power brakes are also added, while the retrimmed cabin boasts with things such as lever-type switches, a three-spoke wheel, as well as a versatile stereo unit, satellite navigation, heated seates and air con.