By Anthony Henson, April 9, 2025
With each passing year, the charm of classic cars seems to grow stronger. While modern vehicles are undeniably superior in almost every practical sense—more comfortable, more reliable, better equipped—it’s hard to ignore the soul and character found in older machines. Of course, that sense of nostalgia doesn’t always apply—some brands, like Renault, seem perpetually stuck in the past, regardless of model year. And let’s face it: in today’s world, it’s hard to imagine a car without Apple CarPlay—or, for some, Android Auto.
In the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside, surrounded by rolling fields and winding B-roads, lies Frontline Cars, a company quietly redefining what it means to drive a classic car. Specialising in the restoration of vintage MGs, Frontline is dedicated to preserving the spirit of the brand—one that once stood proudly before falling victim to decades of corporate mismanagement.
Today, MG enjoys a second life under Chinese ownership, and by some measures, it’s stronger than ever in its 101-year history. But for purists, the true essence of MG lies in the past—and that’s where Frontline steps in.
The company’s focus is the 1950s MGA Coupe, a two-seater classic reborn through meticulous restoration. Using modern tools, techniques, and engineering know-how, Frontline doesn’t just bring these cars back to life—it reimagines them. The chassis and body are restored to a condition far beyond their original factory finish, while the drivetrain and suspension are thoroughly modernised for today’s roads. Inside, the cabins are retrimmed with precision, blending period-correct styling with contemporary comfort.
This is not just restoration—it’s reinvention, done with respect for the past and an eye on the future.
The MGA Factory Edition
The Front Line build process is fully bespoke, with the customer/client being fully involved across all stages. The MG Factory Edition is the latest offering of English motoring folklore.
Weighing just 815 kg (dry), the new MGA Factory Edition blends classic styling with modern performance and engineering. Buyers can choose between two naturally aspirated Duratec engines: a 2.0-litre (225 bhp) or a 2.5-litre (290 bhp), both featuring individual throttle bodies, a modern ECU, and precision-tuned components for a lively, linear power delivery. Power is sent through Frontline’s renowned five-speed manual gearbox.
The chassis, developed entirely in-house, includes a limited-slip differential, upgraded shafts and bearings, and a five-link rear suspension co-developed with Nitron. Refined geometry, telescopic front dampers, and uprated brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers enhance performance. Adjustable electronic power steering and a modernized fly-off handbrake balance daily usability with classic appeal.
Visually, the MGA stays true to its 1950s roots with subtle contemporary upgrades such as crystal-clear LED headlights (featuring etched Frontline logos), a cleaner front fascia, and—for the first time in the brand’s history—a Frontline badge on the bonnet, marking its bespoke, handcrafted identity.
