Evaluation of the MGA Factory Edition: Peak of British Craftsmanship
In a tranquil English countryside, an MG scampers through overgrown hedgerows, its British Racing Green and polished chrome body gleaming in the sunlight. Despite the vintage façade, this is no throwback to 1955. Instead, it's a modern reimagining by Frontline Cars, a symbol of the brand's efforts to bring old-world charm into the present era.
Founded in 1991 near the site of the former MG factory in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, Frontline Cars specializes in updating British sports cars, with a significant share of its business dedicated to providing spare parts. However, it also offers restomods like the MGB 'Factory Edition' models, including the V8-powered LE60 and electric BEE GT, which I had the opportunity to drive in 2023. In celebration of the MGA's 70th anniversary, Frontline Cars has now applied the Factory Edition treatment to this classic model.
The transformation begins with a new body shell sourced from British Motor Heritage, as the MGA's smaller production run necessitates a full restoration rather than a start-from-scratch approach employed for the MGB. The process involves 3,000 hours of labor, as the MGA features a separate chassis rather than the unibody construction of the MGB.
Upon securing a suitable donor MGA, Frontline Cars embarks on a comprehensive restoration, upgrading various components such as the engine, gearbox, suspension, brakes, and electrical systems. A Ford engine with outputs of 225 horsepower or 290 horsepower, paired with a Mazda MX-5 transmission, provides the modern powertrain. Upgraded suspension and brakes ensure improved handling and stopping ability, while the interior boasts luxurious amenities for a comfortable driving experience.
As the sun beams down, I slide into the cockpit, greeted by aged leather seats, bespoke Smiths gauges, and a wood-rimmed steering wheel. Driving this modernized MGA offers an exhilarating experience on winding country roads, its fitting balance between comfort and agility striking the right chord. However, it's worth noting that the shallow screen and slender doors create an exposed feeling, which might be less appealing in adverse weather conditions.
Although the Factory Edition commands a significant investment, comfortably exceeding £200,000 once personalized to the buyer's specifications, it offers a rare and distinctive driving experience. Unlike entry-level supercars from Aston Martin or McLaren, the MGA Factory Edition promises an authentic classic car experience without the foibles, complete with a delightful exterior design and modern technology integration. In sum, Frontline Cars' MGA Factory Edition wonderfully combines the spirit of vintage engineering with the performance and refinement of contemporary automobiles.
- After driving the MGB 'Factory Edition' models in 2023, Frontline Cars has now extended the Factory Edition treatment to other classic models, such as the MGA, which showcases their skill in blending old-world charm with modern technology.
- The home-and-garden sector can learn from Frontline Cars' approach to restoration, as they carefully select high-quality materials, like the body shell sourced from British Motor Heritage, to ensure the end product maintains the original's aesthetic appeal.
- Beyond the car-maintenance and spare parts services, Frontline Cars is also a pioneer in the electric-vehicles market, with electric versions of their models like the BEE GT, demonstrating a commitment to making vintage sports cars eco-friendly without compromising on performance.
