Head to head
Brian James A4 Transporter vs Ifor Williams HB511
The Brian James A4 Transporter is 230kg lighter empty and is rated 300kg heavier gross.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Unladen weight: the Ifor Williams HB511 weighs 230kg more empty.
- Gross weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter is rated 300kg heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James A4 Transporter | Ifor Williams HB511 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3000kg | 2,700kg |
| Unladen weight | 770kg | 1,000kg |
| Payload | 2230kg | - |
| Internal bed | 4.5m x 2.0m | - |
| Axles | Twin axle | - |
| Internal length | - | 3.52m |
| Internal width | - | 1.79m |
| Brakes | - | Braked |
Sources: Brian James A4 Transporter, Ifor Williams HB511. 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 230kg lighter empty
- you want one that is rated 300kg heavier gross
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 HB511 if...
The wider step up from the HB506, for larger horses or owners who want more room in transit. The extra 12cm of internal width and 36cm of length cost 80kg unladen, which is worth checking against your tow vehicle before choosing it over the HB506.
Listed by
- Trek-Trailers Lincolnshire - Doncaster, Belton
- Trek-Trailers Suffolk - Bury Saint Edmunds
- R M Trailer Centre - Middlesbrough, North Ormesby
- Blains Trailers & Tyres - Hemel Hempstead, Great Gaddesden
- Horse Trailer Sales - Robertsbridge, Staplecross
- Trek-Trailers Three Counties - Hereford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Brian James A4 Transporter and the Ifor Williams HB511?
The Brian James A4 Transporter is 230kg lighter empty and is rated 300kg heavier gross. 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 HB511 is a two-horse trailer, twin axle, wider body.
Which is lighter, the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Ifor Williams HB511?
The Brian James A4 Transporter. It is 230kg lighter empty than the Ifor Williams HB511.
Can I tow the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Ifor Williams HB511 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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