1958 FMR TG 500

The Messerschmitt Kabinenroller (or 'Cabin Scooter') series of microcars was introduced in 1953 as the 'Fend', after its co-designer Fritz Fend. It was sold under its manufacturer's name (RSM Messerschmitt) from 1953 to 1956, and by Fahrzeug- und Maschinenbau GmbH, Regensburg (FMR) from 1956 to 1964, the name change coincided with the replacement of the original 148cc Fichtel & Sachs engine to a 174cc unit. The single-cylinder two-stroke engine, positioned at the rear behind the occupants, produced a meager 9 horsepower, but adequate to propel the KR175 to speeds of around 55 mph. Introduced in 1953 at the Geneva Motor Show, it had a monocoque structure with tandem seating. Most 'Kabinenrollers' used a bubble Plexiglas canopy reminiscent of the Messerschmitt's wartime aircraft and hinged sideways to enable easy access to the interior. The KR175 and the 191cc KR200 of 1955 used handlebar controls. The KR200 received revised bodywork, a floor-mounted accelerator and clutch, and an improved turning circle. Another important improvement was the revision of the electric starter which could be made to run backward, allowing the KR200 to use the four gears to move in reverse (with speeds of 60 mph in one was so bold). Later models wore the diamond-shaped FMR badge, representing Fahrzeug und Maschienenbau GmbH Regensburg. By the time production of the KR200 ended in 1964, approximately 30,000 examples had been made.

Derivatives of the Kabinenroller included the KR201 Roadster and Cabriolet soft-tops, along with the four-wheeled Tg500 sports model, known unofficially as the 'Tiger.' Power was sourced from a 500cc twin-cylinder air-cooled two-stroke engine designed by the firm of Fichtel & Sachs. The Tg500 was unique in that it had a reverse gear in the 'box.' Designers used the monocoque bodyshell of the KR200 three-wheeler but modified the rear to accommodate the two wheels and independent suspension. In the front, the track was extended slightly and 10-inch diameter wheels were installed. It had larger headlamps and larger front suspension arms. Both hardtop and Roadster/Cabriolet configurations were offered.

The engine developed 19.5 horsepower which gave the Tiger a top speed of 78 mph. Zero-to-sixty mph was accomplished in 28 seconds. To cope with the increased performance, the Tiger received hydraulic brakes which replaced the mechanical units of the KR200. A total of 320 examples of the Tiger were built.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2021