The automotive world has witnessed countless attempts to modernize classic cars. However, few companies have achieved the perfect balance between heritage preservation and modern performance like Frontline Cars with their stunning MGA Factory Edition.
This remarkable transformation takes the beloved 1950s British roadster and infuses it with contemporary reliability and power. The result is a sports car that honors its past while embracing the future.
The Birth of a Modern Classic
Frontline Cars, nestled in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, sits on hallowed ground. This location once housed the original MG factory, where countless British sports cars rolled off the production line during the brand’s golden era.
Founded in 1991, the company has spent over three decades perfecting the art of MG restoration and modification. Their latest creation, the MGA Factory Edition, represents the pinnacle of their engineering prowess and craftsmanship.
Why the MGA Deserved This Treatment
The original MGA, launched in 1955, was revolutionary for its time. Its sleek, aerodynamic design marked a dramatic departure from MG’s pre-war styling philosophy.
Despite its beauty and charm, the original car suffered from typical 1950s limitations. Reliability issues, modest power output, and outdated suspension technology often frustrated owners who wanted to enjoy their cars regularly.
Heart of the Beast: Mazda-Derived Power
The most significant transformation lies beneath the MGA’s elegant bonnet. Frontline has replaced the original British engine with a thoroughly modern, Mazda-derived Duratec powerplant.
Customers can choose between two naturally aspirated options. The standard 2.0-liter engine produces an impressive 225 horsepower, while the optional 2.5-liter unit delivers a thrilling 290 horsepower.
Engineering Excellence Behind the Scenes
These aren’t simply transplanted Mazda engines. Frontline’s engineering team has extensively modified each powerplant with individual throttle bodies, performance camshafts, and a completely remapped ECU.
The result is an engine that revs enthusiastically to 7,750 rpm while delivering smooth, linear power delivery. More importantly, this modern engine weighs 132 pounds less than the original MG unit, dramatically improving the car’s weight distribution.
Transmission and Drivetrain Perfection
Power reaches the road through a carefully selected Mazda five-speed manual gearbox. This transmission was chosen not just for compatibility, but for its precise, satisfying shift action that rivals the best modern sports cars.
A limited-slip differential ensures power is delivered effectively to both rear wheels. The gear ratios have been carefully calibrated to provide both spirited acceleration and relaxed cruising capability.
Chassis and Suspension Revolution
The original MGA’s chassis and suspension were adequate for 1950s standards but woefully inadequate for modern performance expectations. Frontline’s engineers have completely reimagined the car’s underpinnings.
The front suspension now features a double-wishbone setup with modern telescopic dampers from Nitron. Gone are the antiquated lever-arm shocks that plagued the original design.
Rear Suspension Transformation
The rear end has received even more dramatic changes. The original leaf-spring setup has been replaced with a sophisticated five-link coilover system.
This modern suspension architecture provides superior wheel control while maintaining the classic car’s essential character. The system was co-developed with Nitron, ensuring optimal damping characteristics for both comfort and performance.
Braking System Upgrades
Modern performance demands modern stopping power. The Frontline MGA features four-piston front brake calipers paired with two-piston rear units.
Despite these modern upgrades, Frontline has retained the traditional fly-off handbrake. This detail preserves the authentic driving experience that classic car enthusiasts cherish.
Weight and Performance Figures
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Frontline MGA is its featherweight construction. The complete car tips the scales at just 815 kilograms (1,797 pounds), making it 85 kg lighter than the original.
This dramatic weight reduction, combined with modern power, creates extraordinary performance figures. The 2.0-liter model accelerates from zero to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds.
Real-World Performance
On the road, the Frontline MGA delivers an experience that few modern sports cars can match. The combination of minimal weight, precise steering, and abundant power creates an intoxicating driving experience.
The car’s small dimensions mean it fits perfectly on narrow British country lanes. Its modest tire contact patch and playful chassis balance make it tremendously engaging at legal speeds.
Design Philosophy: Subtlety Over Shock
Frontline’s design team has exercised remarkable restraint in modifying the MGA’s timeless appearance. The changes are so subtle that most observers won’t immediately notice the car’s extensive modifications.
The most obvious change involves the LED headlight units. These modern lights provide vastly improved illumination while maintaining the car’s classic proportions.
Interior Modernization
The cabin receives more extensive updates while preserving the MGA’s classic atmosphere. Frontline’s signature aluminum tub seats provide excellent support and can be customized for each owner’s physique.
Modern conveniences include heated seats, Bluetooth audio connectivity, and electronic instruments with vintage-inspired graphics. USB charging ports and optional air conditioning make the car practical for regular use.
Customization Options
Every Frontline MGA is built to order, allowing customers to specify virtually every detail. Paint colors, interior materials, wheel finishes, and performance options can all be tailored to individual preferences.
Some customers opt for the Sebring-style configuration, which removes the bumpers and installs a racing-style Perspex windscreen. This option pays homage to the MGA’s successful competition history.
The Manufacturing Process
Each Frontline MGA begins life as a donor car, which can be supplied by the customer or sourced by Frontline. The original car is completely disassembled and stripped to bare metal.
The chassis is then strengthened and modified to accommodate all the modern components. Every panel is carefully refinished to concours standards, often exceeding the quality of the original factory finish.
Attention to Detail
Frontline’s craftsmen spend countless hours ensuring every detail is perfect. The fit and finish of these cars rivals that of modern luxury vehicles while maintaining authentic classic car character.
The assembly process takes approximately ten months from start to finish. This lengthy timeline reflects the extensive custom work required for each vehicle.
Market Position and Competition
The Frontline MGA occupies a unique position in the restomod market. While companies like Singer have gained fame for their Porsche 911 reimaginings, few specialists focus exclusively on British sports cars.
At £145,000 ($170,000) plus the cost of a donor car, the MGA represents serious money. However, this price reflects the extensive engineering development and hand-built construction quality.
Target Audience
These cars appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate classic British sports car character but demand modern reliability and performance. Many customers are successful business owners who remember the original cars from their youth.
The limited production numbers ensure exclusivity, with only a handful of cars completed each year. This scarcity adds to the car’s appeal among collectors and driving enthusiasts.
Driving Experience Comparison
Automotive journalists who have driven the Frontline MGA consistently praise its remarkable composure and engaging character. The car manages to feel both familiar and revolutionary simultaneously.
Comparisons to the modern Mazda MX-5 Miata are inevitable, given the shared powertrain components. However, the MGA’s lighter weight and more intimate dimensions create a distinctly different driving experience.
Road Test Impressions
Test drivers report that the car feels incredibly planted and composed, even on rough British B-roads. The modern suspension effectively filters out harshness while preserving essential feedback.
The steering, despite being electrically assisted, provides excellent communication from the front wheels. Some critics feel the assistance could be reduced further to match the car’s otherwise analog character.
Future Prospects and Legacy
The Frontline MGA Factory Edition represents more than just another restomod project. It demonstrates how classic cars can be thoughtfully modernized without losing their essential character.
This approach could inspire other specialists to tackle similar projects with different classic models. The success of Frontline’s various MG projects proves there’s strong demand for expertly executed restomods.
Collectible Potential
Given the limited production numbers and extensive development costs, these cars are likely to hold their value well. The combination of classic styling and modern reliability makes them attractive to both collectors and drivers.
Future owners will benefit from Frontline’s extensive parts and service support. The company maintains detailed records of every car and can provide ongoing maintenance and upgrades as needed.
Technical Specifications Summary
Engine Options:
- 2.0L Duratec: 225 horsepower, 178 lb-ft torque
- 2.5L Duratec: 290 horsepower, enhanced torque output
Performance:
- Weight: 815kg (1,797 lbs)
- 0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds (2.0L), 4.1 seconds (2.5L)
- Top speed: 155 mph (both engines)
Chassis:
- Double-wishbone front suspension
- Five-link coilover rear suspension
- Four-piston front, two-piston rear brakes
- Electronic power steering
- Limited-slip differential
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Frontline MGA cost? Starting price is £145,000 ($170,000) plus donor car and shipping costs.
How long does delivery take? Approximately 10 months from order confirmation to delivery.
Can I supply my own donor car? Yes, Frontline accepts customer-supplied donor cars in any condition.
Is the car available in left-hand drive? Both left and right-hand drive configurations are available.
What warranty is provided? Frontline provides comprehensive warranty coverage on all mechanical components.
Can the car be used daily? Yes, modern reliability makes daily driving practical and enjoyable.
Are automatic transmissions available? No, only five-speed manual transmission is offered.
How many cars are built annually? Production is limited to ensure quality, with exact numbers varying yearly.
The Frontline MGA Factory Edition successfully bridges the gap between classic charm and modern performance. It proves that thoughtful engineering and attention to detail can create something truly special in today’s automotive landscape.