Head to head
Bockmann Portax Esprit vs Ifor Williams GD85
The Ifor Williams GD85 is 448kg lighter empty. The Bockmann Portax Esprit is rated 1 tonnes heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Unladen weight: the Bockmann Portax Esprit weighs 448kg more empty.
- Gross weight: the Bockmann Portax Esprit is rated 1 tonnes heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Bockmann Portax Esprit | Ifor Williams GD85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2400kg | 1,400kg single axle / 2,700kg twin axle |
| Unladen weight | approx. 843kg | 395kg single axle / 485kg twin axle |
| Payload | 1557kg | - |
| Horse capacity | 2 horses | - |
| Body material | Aluminium | - |
| Internal bed | - | 2.5m x 1.58m (8ft 2in x 5ft 2in) |
| Brakes | - | Braked, auto-reverse over-run |
Sources: Bockmann Portax Esprit, Ifor Williams GD85. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the Portax Esprit if...
- you want one that is rated 1 tonnes heavier gross
Bockmann's entry-level model in its Portax range, built for owners wanting a durable two-horse trailer without the cost of the higher trims. Its light unladen weight keeps it towable by a mid-size 4x4 or pickup.
Listed by
- Böckmann UK Trailers & Horseboxes - Cinderford, Littledean
Buy or hire the GD85 if...
- you want one that is 448kg lighter empty
The entry point of the Ifor Williams general duty range and one of the most common working trailers in Britain. Smallholders, gardeners and tradespeople buy it for everyday hauling without needing a heavy tow vehicle, and the twin-axle version roughly doubles the payload for a modest gain in unladen weight.
Full GD85 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Bockmann Portax Esprit and the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Ifor Williams GD85 is 448kg lighter empty. The Bockmann Portax Esprit is rated 1 tonnes heavier gross. The Bockmann Portax Esprit is a two-horse aluminium-bodied horsebox trailer; the Ifor Williams GD85 is a general duty box trailer, single or twin axle.
Which is lighter, the Bockmann Portax Esprit or the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Ifor Williams GD85. It is 448kg lighter empty than the Bockmann Portax Esprit.
Can I tow the Bockmann Portax Esprit or the Ifor Williams GD85 on a car licence?
Yes, as far as the licence goes. Both are rated at or under 3,500kg gross, and a car (B) licence has covered towing up to 3,500kg since 16 December 2021. Your car still has to be rated to tow the loaded weight - check the handbook or the VIN plate.
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