MGB GT LE50: A soulful retro classic

This year is the 50th anniversary of the launch of the MGB, and to celebrate Frontline Developments has launched this retro tribute, the MGB GT LE50. "Welcome to retro modern", says Andrew English in The Daily Telegraph: old cars rebuilt as modern ones with updated engines, transmissions and suspension systems. The result is "a compelling vision, a classic car that drives, performs and is as practical and reliable as a modern machine".

Achieving this is no easy task and accounts for the steep asking price £59,880. Under the old, reengineered MGB shell there is a two-litre Mazda MX-5 engine, resulting in a 130bhp power boost (the MGB had just 85bhp when it launched in 1962), says Matthew Jones on TopGear.com.

Inside, though, everything's "familiarly MGB". There's a black crackled dashboard, toggle switchgear, bespoke Smiths instruments the manufacturers of the original MGB's dials and gauges and leather seats. This is a "fitting tribute to a motoring classic".

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The old MGB's "soggy handling and driving responses have been utterly vanquished, creating a car which is both eager and fluid", says Simon Charlesworth in Dep-O Magazine. It is also fast delivering a top speed of 160mph and a 0-60mph time of 5.1 secs yet composed; "involving and intoxicating".

Is there a modern equivalent to the LE50? In a word, no. The LE50 is the perfect daily retro classic. But if you want one, you'd better be quick only 50 are going to be made.

Contact: www.frontlinedevelopments.com .