1960 FMR Tg500 'Tiger' Cabriolet Microcar
License plate STM 982
Chassis number 21065
Engine number 2829
• Raced by Eduard Ernst
• Offered with a very rare Sports top
• Retains its original engine
• A highly sought after and important specimen

The Messerschmitt Kabinenroller microcar, introduced in 1953 as the "Fend" after co-designer Fritz Fend, was soon marketed under the manufacturer's name. This change coincided with the switch from the original's 148cc Fichtel & Sachs engine to a 174cc unit. The single-cylinder, two-stroke engine, located in the rear, produced a modest 9 hp, yet enough to propel the lightweight and aerodynamic KR175 to a speed of approximately 88 km/h (55 mph). The plexiglass hood, so reminiscent of those on Messerschmitt warplanes, hinged sideways to allow access for the two occupants, seated one behind the other, tandem-style.

The KR175 was succeeded in 1955 by the KR200. Later models bore the diamond-shaped FMR logo, which stood for Fahrzeug und Maschienenbau GmbH Regensburg. Derivatives included the KR201 Roadster and Cabriolet with soft tops, and the fearsome four-wheeled sports model TG500, unofficially known as the "Tiger."

Although the "Tiger" superficially bore little resemblance to the KR200, it was especially identical "under the skin." Instead of the KR200's 191cc single-cylinder engine, as its name suggests, the TG500 was powered by a 500cc engine: a twin-cylinder, air-cooled, two-stroke engine designed by Fichtel & Sachs. This was paired with larger wheels and brakes (hydraulic instead of cable-operated), improved suspension, and, most obviously, four wheels. This allowed for contemporary sports car performance, and with its agile handling, the Tiger proved to be an effective competition vehicle in the right hands. Production ran from 1958 to 1961, with only approximately 300 units produced.

This particular car was built in 1960 for competition use by FMR, specifically for and under the direction of FMR employee and racing driver Eduard Ernst. The car incorporated his own ideas and modifications to improve its competitiveness. These included an aerodynamic front spoiler; improved rear air intakes for better cooling; the omission of the externally mounted spare wheel and license plate holder; modifications to the front suspension and transmission; and numerous modifications under the hood. A Sporttop was available as an option in place of a conventional convertible top. Importantly, this rare Sporttop has survived with the car. Although modern replicas exist, few factory-built Sporttops have survived.

This example was painted in a unique combination of metallic red and silver and was first registered in Germany under "R CC 143." The car was subsequently used by Ernst for competitions, and photos from that period are available. The car subsequently passed through the hands of five more owners in Germany before being brought to the UK by an enthusiast in the early 90s.

The car was initially registered in the UK as HSK 211 and shortly thereafter as STM 982 (an interesting number in itself, considering it began life on a Berkeley sports car for competition). The car was extensively restored and returned to its original metallic red and silver livery. It was then used extensively, including on numerous international tours and rallies, most notably as a participant in the historic Liege-Brescia-Liege Rally in 2008, where it was part of a three-car Tiger team that won the Team Prize. The car was also exhibited at the Cartier Style et Luxe Concourse d'Elegance in 1999.

In 2012, the car was acquired by the current owner. The last MOT inspection took place in August 2019 at 25.997 miles, while the current mileage is just over 26.000 miles. The car was recently taken out of storage, started, and run with fresh fuel and a new battery.

This example is a well-known and fully registered Tiger Register, maintained by enthusiasts and officially registered. It has been featured in "Messerschmitt Kabinenroller" by Jens Kron and "More Bubble Cars & Micro Cars" by Andrea and David Sparrow. It's well worth a closer look and a valuable addition to any car collection.

Metropole is unique: a 30.000m2 automotive experience with over 2 cars and trucks. The museum is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 400:10 AM to 00:16 PM. The showroom is open Wednesday through Friday from 00:10 AM to 00:17 PM, and Saturdays from 00:10.00 AM to 16.00:25 PM. We are located XNUMX km from the German border and are easily accessible by highway.
We can also arrange transportation for the car worldwide.

We speak Deutsch, we speak English, and of course also Dutch.