Head to head
Brian James A4 Transporter vs Ifor Williams GD85
The Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 1.6 tonnes heavier gross and has a bed 2.0m (6.5ft) longer. The Ifor Williams GD85 is 375kg lighter empty.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Gross weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 1.6 tonnes heavier gross.
- Unladen weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter weighs 375kg more empty.
- Internal bed: the Brian James A4 Transporter has a bed 2.0m (6.5ft) longer.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James A4 Transporter | Ifor Williams GD85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3000kg | 1,400kg single axle / 2,700kg twin axle |
| Unladen weight | 770kg | 395kg single axle / 485kg twin axle |
| Internal bed | 4.5m x 2.0m | 2.5m x 1.58m (8ft 2in x 5ft 2in) |
| Payload | 2230kg | - |
| Axles | Twin axle | - |
| Brakes | - | Braked, auto-reverse over-run |
Sources: Brian James A4 Transporter, Ifor Williams GD85. 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 1.6 tonnes heavier gross
- you want one that has a bed 2.0m (6.5ft) longer
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 GD85 if...
- you want one that is 375kg 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 Brian James A4 Transporter and the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 1.6 tonnes heavier gross and has a bed 2.0m (6.5ft) longer. The Ifor Williams GD85 is 375kg lighter empty. 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 Ifor Williams GD85 is a general duty box trailer, single or twin axle.
Which is lighter, the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Ifor Williams GD85?
The Ifor Williams GD85. It is 375kg lighter empty than the Brian James A4 Transporter.
Can I tow the Brian James A4 Transporter 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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