Frontline LE50 MGB

[Fastpedeller]

Reading this weeks Autocar (25th Sept), I find the 'modern MGB' made by Frontline.
I'm into kitcars, so I'm pretty familiar with the IVA requirements in that regard, and have some knowlwdge of how this applies to a rebodied classic (though wouldn't say I'm an expert).
Can anyone explain.......
1. Frontline car has a new Mazda engine "For this LE Plus, though, the engine can be in Euro4 engine managemant spec, despite running without a catalitic converter, because this is nominally a 1968 car" the article states. I understand that if an engine is replaced it has to be to the emission level of the date that the engine is produced, not the base car.
2. Frontline cars "have a seam-welded bodyshell (brand new from BMH) with extra re-inforcing gussets and a heavily re-engineered suspension system". Whilst I can see from an engineering point of view this is likely to be superior to the original, doesn't an IVA change become a requirement as this isn't simple a new bodyshell fitted to the old parts, and it may require a Q reg as it's a mixture of major part of various ages. I don't understand how this can be classed as the original vehicle as so much has changed, and it is essentially a kit car.
Can anyone who is more knowledgeable please explain (also posted on kit car forum)

[chormy]

Its a black art, so many classic cars have been modified at some time with engines and suspension but it seems that so long as the thing looks to have a original shell and a valid V5 . you can do most things, Cobras, sevens etcare not anywhere near orginal but use the axle and a few other parts to gain a period V5.
I really don't think you will get a straight answer, not when 50k is at stake.

[chormy]

Stitching a shell is old hat done in the 60's , my 63 shell has been stiched extensivly

[Expatloon]

Your thoughts echo mine ever since I saw the spec of the LE50, there is barely a vestige of an MGB in the car so I'm at a complete loss to understand how they can get away with using the original registration numbers.

The DVLA list several categories for rebuilt vehicles including:

Kit cars
Radically altered vehicles
Old vehicles
Reconstructed Classic Vehicles

yet reading each of those it's hard to see how the car possibly qualifies under any one of them. Collusion with the MGOC seems to be involved.

And BTW according to current DVLA records HOY 3D is still recorded as 1798cc.

Strictly speaking I believe the use of a heritage shell should instantly disqualify use of the donor car registration.

Edited by Expatloon on Sunday 29th September 20:58

[v8250]

I was over at Frontline the other day and had a thoroughly good look over the LE50. Really, it's a nice car to be sitting in and the concept is very well executed. Most interesting appears that the majority of enquiries and sales are coming from the fairer sex driver as opposed to us gents. Can see the logic behind this, where a female driver wants all the fun of a brand new classic but with the reliability of modern mechanicals & running gear.

I have no view as to the registering rights or wrongs of a newly shelled MGB but I still question the price tag of £50K[?]. We are all aware of the criticism this type of project comes into yet any Company must make a sensible profit to remain viable. So, I hope the car sells in the forecast numbers, if only to keep this market sector alive with continued interest in our old classics. Hats off to any individual or Company who ventures into this over-crowded market sector...

...right, must get back to the V8 conversion as the garage is looking like Santa's Grotto with rebuilt engine, R380 'box, Hoyle suspension and some super Brembo brakes, fuel injection tank and too many boxes of shiny new bits. Will post pics later this month...