Frontline’s MGA Factory Edition keeps the 1950s roadster’s familiar shape but replaces much of its original mechanical package. Its engines are naturally aspirated Duratec four-cylinders; the Mazda connection is the five-speed gearbox, not a rotary engine. Frontline offers 2.0- and 2.5-litre versions, along with extensive changes to the suspension, steering and brakes.
What “Mazda power” means in the Frontline MGA
Frontline’s 2025 press pack identifies the Factory Edition’s engines as Duratec units and its transmission as a five-speed Mazda gearbox. That distinction matters: the car is not described by Frontline as having a Mazda rotary engine, nor does the press pack establish that the entire powertrain is a production MX-5 assembly.
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There is a difference in wording between sources. Top Gear described its particular 225 bhp test car as using a tuned 2.0-litre Mazda MX-5 engine, while Frontline’s own specification calls the engine a Duratec and identifies the gearbox as Mazda-sourced. The clearest general description is therefore a Duratec-powered MGA with a Mazda five-speed gearbox; the Top Gear phrase refers to the test car as that publication described it.
Frontline’s published engine and performance figures
The figures below are Frontline’s published specifications, not independent instrumented test results in the available road-test coverage.
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| Factory Edition | Power | Torque | 0–60 mph | Top speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0-litre | 225 bhp at 7,200 rpm | 241 Nm at 4,500 rpm | 4.8 seconds | 155 mph |
| 2.5-litre | 290 bhp at 7,100 rpm | 330 Nm at 4,200 rpm | 4.1 seconds | 155 mph |
Frontline says both engines use individual throttle bodies, a modern ECU, stainless-steel exhaust and tuned camshafts. The published specifications make the 2.5 the more powerful and torquey choice, with a shorter claimed 0–60 mph time; the press pack gives both versions the same stated top speed.
The conversion changes the chassis as well as the engine
The Factory Edition is a bespoke build based on a 1950s MGA donor. Frontline’s package includes a five-speed gearbox, limited-slip differential with uprated shafts and bearings, and suspension and braking components intended to suit the car’s higher performance.
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- Rear suspension: five-link coilover arrangement.
- Front suspension: telescopic suspension with adjustable Nitron dampers.
- Steering: adjustable electric power steering.
- Brakes: four-piston front and two-piston rear brakes.
- Handbrake: Frontline says the fly-off handbrake is retained.
Frontline lists 15-inch wire wheels with Continental UltraContact tyres, with Dunlop-style wheels offered as an option. Its specification also lists a 45-litre fuel tank.
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Weight and the original MGA
Frontline gives the Factory Edition a dry weight of 815 kg and says its body is 85 kg lighter than that of the original MGA 1500. Both are manufacturer statements; the press material does not provide an independent weighing method or specify a corresponding wet weight.
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Frontline’s 2025 press pack says the MGA launched in 1955 and that more than 100,000 were built between 1955 and 1962. That production total is the company’s historical figure.
Body styles, steering position and donor car
According to Frontline’s press pack, the Factory Edition can be built as a roadster or coupé, in left- or right-hand drive. Current availability and order terms are not established by those specifications, so prospective buyers should confirm them directly with Frontline.
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- GET THE RIGHT PART -- Before purchasing, research to ensure that the part will fit your vehicle; enter all vehicle information (year, make, model, engine and trim) for compatibility and check qualifier notes
- Conversion Sets (CS) provide every gasket for lower engine work - add a Head Set (HS) for complete engine overhaul work
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Top Gear reported that its quoted conversion did not require a running donor car. That is a detail from the publication’s review, not a guarantee of Frontline’s current donor requirements; confirm the condition and provenance requirements for a specific commission before buying a donor.
What road tests add—and what they do not establish
Top Gear’s road test covered a 225 bhp 2.0-litre car and noted its manual gearbox, adjustable Nitron suspension, electric power steering and upgraded brakes. MotorTrend also described a naturally aspirated Mazda-linked four-cylinder, a five-speed manual and substantial chassis and brake changes.
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MotorTrend’s reviewer said the tested car lacked traction control and ABS and cautioned that the more powerful setup could call for care, particularly in wet conditions. That is an observation about the car in that review; it does not establish the driver aids fitted to every build or every market configuration. Buyers should ask Frontline to specify the equipment on the individual car they are considering.
Reported price and what to verify
Top Gear reported a price of £140,000 for a full conversion, plus the donor car and local taxes. This is a dated amount reported in that review, not a verified current quote. Frontline’s current price, lead time, warranty and service arrangements are not established by the cited product and road-test information. Ask the company for a written, build-specific quotation and terms.
Frontline’s stated aim for the car
Frontline Cars founder and chief engineer Tim Fenna described the MGA as “the natural next step for us” and said, “The original MGA was a joy to drive, but this is something else entirely.” These are company-supplied quotations reproduced in Frontline’s press material.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
