MGB Abington lands in Australia

The iconic MGB roadster has been revived as a modern driver’s car, with some help from a Sydney car builder.

Available as a turn-key offering with modern performance and luxury, the finished MGB Abington is priced between $120,000 and $200,000 depending on the condition of the donor car and the extent of modifications.

Each restoration is based on Australian-built versions of the MGB roadster that first launched in the 1960s. From there, the MGB is fitted with a new Mazda-sourced 215kW 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder, a six-speed Mazda gearbox, six-link rear suspension and adjustable coil-over shock absorbers, billet alloy four-piston front and two-piston rear brake callipers.

Closer inspection reveals a body that is seam welded and an interior furnished in Wilton carpets and Connolly leather, with full sound and heat deadening.

All the restoration work is performed by a team of six at Sydney-based car builder Modern Classic Cars, which in turn sources parts from UK firm Frontline Developments. The Modern Classic Cars team prefers to source their own donor vehicles, but will happily work with bodies of sentimental value (i.e. your Grandfather’s car).

“I would compare the MGB Abington to a Porsche Boxster but without all of the safety technology. Nought to 100km/h in 4.0 seconds and the performance and handling of a modern vehicle,” Modern Classic Cars owner David Dyer.

“Prices range between $120,000 and $200,000, depending on horsepower, carpets, paint finishes and a list of other variables.”

While the MGB Abington forgoes many modern electronic aids, it does come with power steering, air-conditioning, central locking and heated seats with lumbar adjustment.

Each build takes about nine months to complete.

“We’re full next year with builds at this stage. Typically, our customers are not buying the MGB Abington as a classic car, they’re buying it as their weekend sports car.

“This isn’t another 911 or McLaren. It’s something totally different.”