Head to head
Brian James Race Transporter 5 vs Ifor Williams HB506
The Brian James Race Transporter 5 is rated 900kg heavier gross and is 45cm (1.5ft) wider inside. The Ifor Williams HB506 is 280kg lighter empty.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Gross weight: the Brian James Race Transporter 5 is rated 900kg heavier gross.
- Unladen weight: the Brian James Race Transporter 5 weighs 280kg more empty.
- Internal width: the Brian James Race Transporter 5 is 45cm (1.5ft) wider inside.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James Race Transporter 5 | Ifor Williams HB506 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3500kg | 2,600kg |
| Unladen weight | from 1200kg | 920kg |
| Internal width | 2.12m | 1.67m |
| Payload | up to 2300kg | - |
| Internal bed | 5.0m / 5.5m long | - |
| Axles | Twin | - |
| Internal length | - | 3.16m |
| Brakes | - | Braked |
Sources: Brian James Race Transporter 5, Ifor Williams HB506. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the Race Transporter 5 if...
- you want one that is rated 900kg heavier gross
- you want one that is 45cm (1.5ft) wider inside
Used by race teams and professional recovery operators moving cars that need slightly more bed length or restraint options than the Race Transporter 4 offers. It remains a twin-axle single-car trailer rather than a multi-car hauler.
Listed by
- Bicester Trailer Centre - Bicester
Buy or hire the HB506 if...
- you want one that is 280kg lighter empty
The mainstream two-horse trailer in Britain, used by private owners and small yards. Its comparatively low unladen weight for the class is the practical point: it widens the range of 4x4s and large SUVs that can legally and comfortably tow it.
Listed by
- R M Trailer Centre - Middlesbrough, North Ormesby
- Blains Trailers & Tyres - Hemel Hempstead, Great Gaddesden
- Horse Trailer Sales - Robertsbridge, Staplecross
- Barnwell Trailers Ltd - Peterborough, Oundle, Barnwell
Common questions
What is the difference between the Brian James Race Transporter 5 and the Ifor Williams HB506?
The Brian James Race Transporter 5 is rated 900kg heavier gross and is 45cm (1.5ft) wider inside. The Ifor Williams HB506 is 280kg lighter empty. The Brian James Race Transporter 5 is a an open twin-axle hydraulic tilt-bed car transporter, longer than the Race Transporter 4; the Ifor Williams HB506 is a two-horse trailer, twin axle.
Which is lighter, the Brian James Race Transporter 5 or the Ifor Williams HB506?
The Ifor Williams HB506. It is 280kg lighter empty than the Brian James Race Transporter 5.
Can I tow the Brian James Race Transporter 5 or the Ifor Williams HB506 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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