Head to head
Brian James A Transporter (A4) vs Ifor Williams GD85
The Brian James A Transporter (A4) is rated 600kg heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Gross weight: the Brian James A Transporter (A4) is rated 600kg heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James A Transporter (A4) | Ifor Williams GD85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2,000kg to 3,000kg depending on variant | 1,400kg single axle / 2,700kg twin axle |
| Brakes | Braked, tandem axle | Braked, auto-reverse over-run |
| Bed | 3.7m x 1.8m up to 5.0m x 2.0m depending on variant | - |
| Unladen weight | - | 395kg single axle / 485kg twin axle |
| Internal bed | - | 2.5m x 1.58m (8ft 2in x 5ft 2in) |
Sources: Brian James A Transporter (A4), Ifor Williams GD85. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the A Transporter (A4) if...
- you want one that is rated 600kg heavier gross
One of the most common car trailers in Britain, bought by trade and private owners for moving road cars, project cars and small vans. The reason it sells is the spread of bed length and gross weight combinations, which lets you match the trailer to the tow car rather than the other way round.
Listed by
- Fieldfare Trailer Centre - Salisbury
- Bicester Trailer Centre - Bicester
- Trek-Trailers Three Counties - Hereford
Buy or hire the GD85 if...
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 Brian James A Transporter (A4) and the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Brian James A Transporter (A4) is rated 600kg heavier gross. The Brian James A Transporter (A4) is a open flatbed car transporter, twin axle; the Ifor Williams GD85 is a general duty box trailer, single or twin axle.
Can I tow the Brian James A Transporter (A4) 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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