As classic cars go, there’s not a lot wrong with the MGA. It’s a pretty little thing and it drives nicely. There’s no getting around the fact that it was designed more than 70 years ago, however, or that it was hamstrung by the mechanical constraints that MG’s engineers had to work within. A brave attempt to realise its potential with the Twin Cam version of 1958 ended in disappointment when the engine proved too temperamental for use by the public.
Now there’s a new twin-cam MGA, but not one powered by a 1950s MG engine. The Frontline MGA Factory Edition uses a 21st Century twin-cam, in this case Mazda’s version of the Ford Duratec, which is coupled to a five-speed Mazda manual gearbox. The powertrain is still rear-wheel drive, although the axle is now an MGB component with a Quaife limited-slip diff, and the rear suspension has been completely revamped with five-link coilovers rather than leaf springs. Adjustable Nitron dampers are fitted all round.
If anyone can be trusted to make a good job of upgrading an MG, it’s Oxfordshire-based Frontline. Now operating a metaphorical stone’s throw from the old MG factory in Abingdon, the company has been re-engineering classics for more than 30 years and is well regarded for its previous MGB conversions – in particular the V8-powered LE60 that could clock 0-60mph in 3.6 seconds and power on to 160mph.
The focus for the new Frontline MGA Factory Edition has been on everyday drivability rather than road-burning. Not that there’s any shortage of power. Even the ‘lesser’ of the two engine options, the 2.0-litre fitted to our test car, develops 225bhp and 178lb ft, while the 2.5-litre alternative ups that to 290bhp and 243lb ft. (In comparison, the standard MGA 1600 of 1959 mustered less than 80bhp.) If you’re so minded, you can scorch from rest to 60mph in 4.8sec in the 2.0-litre or 4.1sec in the 2.5; top speed for both is a theoretical 155mph.
Really, though, it’s all about the style. Built to the precise specifications of the lady who commissioned this particular car, this Frontline MGA Factory Edition is faultless in terms of trim and finish. Externally and internally it looks pleasingly stock, apart from its modern LED headlight units, redesigned seats and smaller wood-rim steering wheel – the last of these taking advantage of electrically assisted steering that helps offset the beefier 185-section tyres (original MGAs wore crossplies that were closer to 155- and 165-section).
It is simply a joy to drive. The peppy Duratec engine makes exactly the right kind of noise – perfectly unobjectionable at low revs but developing an urgent snarl as the needle sweeps around its dial. Meanwhile, the car’s greatly improved suspension and lighter weight – the latter is 85kg less than a standard MGA’s – give a decent ride, even over the UK’s third-world tarmac, matched with tidy cornering. A keen driver could cover ground very quickly in what to the uninitiated looks like just another 70-year-old classic.
For a car of this quality, bespoke build spec and performance, the asking price of £145,000 plus VAT is not ridiculous. We’ll take ours with the optional replica Dunlop alloy disc wheels, please.
Find out more about the Frontline MGA Factory Edition here.
