Head to head
Brian James Race Transporter 5 vs Ifor Williams HB511
The Brian James Race Transporter 5 is rated 800kg heavier gross and is 33cm (1ft) wider inside. The Ifor Williams HB511 is 200kg lighter empty.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Gross weight: the Brian James Race Transporter 5 is rated 800kg heavier gross.
- Unladen weight: the Brian James Race Transporter 5 weighs 200kg more empty.
- Internal width: the Brian James Race Transporter 5 is 33cm (1ft) wider inside.
Specifications side by side
| Brian James Race Transporter 5 | Ifor Williams HB511 | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross weight | 3500kg | 2,700kg |
| Unladen weight | from 1200kg | 1,000kg |
| Internal width | 2.12m | 1.79m |
| Payload | up to 2300kg | - |
| Internal bed | 5.0m / 5.5m long | - |
| Axles | Twin | - |
| Internal length | - | 3.52m |
| Brakes | - | Braked |
Sources: Brian James Race Transporter 5, Ifor Williams HB511. 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 800kg heavier gross
- you want one that is 33cm (1ft) 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 HB511 if...
- you want one that is 200kg lighter empty
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 Race Transporter 5 and the Ifor Williams HB511?
The Brian James Race Transporter 5 is rated 800kg heavier gross and is 33cm (1ft) wider inside. The Ifor Williams HB511 is 200kg 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 HB511 is a two-horse trailer, twin axle, wider body.
Which is lighter, the Brian James Race Transporter 5 or the Ifor Williams HB511?
The Ifor Williams HB511. It is 200kg lighter empty than the Brian James Race Transporter 5.
Can I tow the Brian James Race Transporter 5 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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