Head to head
Brian James A4 Transporter vs Erde 143
The Erde 143 is 672kg lighter empty. The Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 2.4 tonnes heavier gross and carries 1,728kg more.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Unladen weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter weighs 672kg more empty.
- Gross weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 2.4 tonnes heavier gross.
- Payload: the Brian James A4 Transporter carries 1,728kg more.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James A4 Transporter | Erde 143 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3000kg | 600kg |
| Unladen weight | 770kg | 98kg |
| Payload | 2230kg | 502kg |
| Internal bed | 4.5m x 2.0m | - |
| Axles | Twin axle | - |
| Internal length | - | 1.44m |
| Internal width | - | 0.99m |
| Internal height | - | 0.40m |
Sources: Brian James A4 Transporter, Erde 143. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the A4 Transporter if...
- you want one that is rated 2.4 tonnes heavier gross
- you want one that carries 1,728kg more
The A4 Transporter suits driving schools, small dealers and enthusiasts who need to move one car at a time behind a car-derived tow vehicle, offering a simple twin-axle bed without the cost of a beavertail or enclosed body. Its compact size makes it easier to store and manoeuvre than the longer trailers in the A Transporter range.
Listed by
- Compass Trailers - Lewes, Ringmer
- Saxons Trailers - Westerham, Biggin Hill
- R M Trailer Centre - Middlesbrough, North Ormesby
- Formula Trailers,, Brian-James Trailers Main Dealer in the SW UK - Wellington, Poole
Buy or hire the 143 if...
- you want one that is 672kg lighter empty
The Erde 143 is a step up in size from the Erde 102, still light enough for many family cars to tow without a braking system, and commonly used for camping, tip runs and light gardening or DIY loads. Its tipping body and low unladen weight make it a popular first trailer for private buyers.
Listed by
- Towy Trailer Centre - Llandeilo, Ffairfach
Common questions
What is the difference between the Brian James A4 Transporter and the Erde 143?
The Erde 143 is 672kg lighter empty. The Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 2.4 tonnes heavier gross and carries 1,728kg more. The Brian James A4 Transporter is a twin-axle open car transporter trailer from Brian James' A Transporter range, built for towing one car on a 4.5m bed.; the Erde 143 is a a single-axle, unbraked general-purpose trailer with a tipping body, larger than the Erde 102..
Which is lighter, the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Erde 143?
The Erde 143. It is 672kg lighter empty than the Brian James A4 Transporter.
Which carries more, the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Erde 143?
The Brian James A4 Transporter, by 1,728kg.
Can I tow the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Erde 143 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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