Head to head
Brian James A4 Transporter vs Ifor Williams LM85
The Brian James A4 Transporter has a bed 2.06m (7ft) longer. The Ifor Williams LM85 is 245kg lighter empty and carries 745kg more.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Key differences
- Internal bed: the Brian James A4 Transporter has a bed 2.06m (7ft) longer.
- Unladen weight: the Brian James A4 Transporter weighs 245kg more empty.
- Payload: the Ifor Williams LM85 carries 745kg more.
- Gross weight: the Ifor Williams LM85 is rated 500kg heavier gross.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James A4 Transporter | Ifor Williams LM85 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3000kg | 3500kg |
| Unladen weight | 770kg | 525kg |
| Payload | 2230kg | 2975kg |
| Internal bed | 4.5m x 2.0m | 2.44m x 1.52m |
| Axles | Twin axle | - |
Sources: Brian James A4 Transporter, Ifor Williams LM85. 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 has a bed 2.06m (7ft) 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 LM85 if...
- you want one that is 245kg lighter empty
- you want one that carries 745kg more
- you want one that is rated 500kg heavier gross
A compact flatbed for smallholders and tradespeople who need to move heavy but not bulky loads, such as pallets of blocks, and want maximum payload from the smallest bed in the range.
Listed by
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
Common questions
What is the difference between the Brian James A4 Transporter and the Ifor Williams LM85?
The Brian James A4 Transporter has a bed 2.06m (7ft) longer. The Ifor Williams LM85 is 245kg lighter empty and carries 745kg 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 Ifor Williams LM85 is a the shortest flatbed trailer in the LM range.
Which is lighter, the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Ifor Williams LM85?
The Ifor Williams LM85. It is 245kg lighter empty than the Brian James A4 Transporter.
Which carries more, the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Ifor Williams LM85?
The Ifor Williams LM85, by 745kg.
Can I tow the Brian James A4 Transporter or the Ifor Williams LM85 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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