GENERAL The FMR Tg500 Tiger represents the pinnacle of the microcar era, produced between 1958 and 1961 as a sports-oriented evolution of the Messerschmitt bubble car design. This specific unit is one of only 320 pieces ever produced, with an estimated 150 examples remaining worldwide, marking it as an exceptionally rare collector's item. Unlike many units that were distributed as kits for owner assembly, this Tiger was fully assembled at the factory. It was originally ordered from RSM Messerschmitt-Werk, Regensburger Stahl-und Metallbau GMBH, and imported to Finland by Oy Importer AB in 1959. BODYWORK & PAINT When the vehicle originally departed the factory, it featured a classic grey exterior finish. While the car was repainted in its current, more attractive green shade in 1967, the original grey paint remains visible on various internal surfaces. The body has been meticulously maintained over the decades and remains in great shape, as evidenced by the accompanying photography. TECHNICAL The Tiger is powered by a 494 cm³ two-cylinder, two-stroke engine producing 19.5 hp, which allows the 365 kg vehicle to reach a top speed of approximately 130 km/h. It utilizes 4.40×10 sized tires and operates on a 2.5% two-stroke fuel mixture. The odometer currently shows a reading of 43,500 km; while there are no formal records to verify this figure, the car has been driven very little throughout its life. It features matching numbers, confirming the authenticity of its original mechanical components. INTERIOR The cabin was originally styled with a vibrant red interior to contrast the factory grey exterior. This internal configuration is officially noted on the original order form. The vehicle has been treated with care throughout its history, preserving the cockpit as an inviting space for the next owner to enjoy. DOCUMENTS Significant provenance accompanies the vehicle, including the original factory order form which remains available. Due to specific shifts in EU regulations, the Tiger was successfully registered as a motorcycle to take advantage of less frequent inspection requirements. It currently holds both motorcycle vehicle status and a formal Museum vehicle registration. Detailed photography of the vehicle is available for review upon request. COLLECTION This Tiger boasts an extraordinary single-family provenance, having been purchased by the current owner’s father in 1966. It has remained in the same family for nearly 60 years, carrying with it cherished memories of the owner riding in the car as both a child and an adult. While the owner will be sad to see it leave the family collection, it is fully prepared for a new legacy. OTHER INFORMATION The "Tiger" name was actually the subject of a legal dispute with Panhard, who had already trademarked the name for their engines, leading FMR to officially market the car as the Tg500. This 1959 model hails from the period after Fritz Fend and Valentin Knott took over the Regensburg plant from Messerschmitt. Its four-wheel configuration and larger engine transformed the "bubble car" from a basic commuter into a legitimate micro-sports car capable of surprising performance for its size.