Shopping for a car hauler trailer in Texas and trying to decide between Diamond C and Kaufman? Both are top-tier brands we carry at Trailer Place in Wharton, TX — and both build excellent car haulers, but they approach the market differently. Diamond C is known for innovative design and a wide model range, while Kaufman has earned a reputation for bulletproof heavy-duty builds and outstanding customer service. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose.
Brand Overview
Diamond C Car Haulers
Diamond C Trailers (manufactured in Mount Pleasant, TX) offers one of the widest car hauler lineups in the industry. From the entry-level RSA tilt deck to the heavy-duty HDT (Heavy Duty Tilt), Diamond C has a car hauler for every budget and use case. They’re known for their patented Engineered Beam Technology (EBT) frames, powder-coat finishes, and bolt-on modular design that makes repairs easier.
- Key car hauler models: RSA, LSA, HDT, MSA
- GVWR range: 7,000–14,000 lb
- Deck lengths: 20 ft to 28 ft
- Made in: Mount Pleasant, TX
Kaufman Car Haulers
Kaufman Trailers (built in North Carolina) focuses on heavy-duty construction with thick-wall steel tubing and a reputation for handling long-distance, high-cycle use better than many competitors. Kaufman’s car haulers are a favorite among car dealerships, auction runners, and auto transport operators who put serious miles on their equipment.
- Key car hauler models: Standard Car Hauler, Deluxe, Heavy Duty
- GVWR range: 7,000–14,000 lb
- Deck lengths: 20 ft to 24 ft
- Made in: Lexington, NC
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Diamond C | Kaufman |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Technology | EBT engineered beam | Heavy-wall structural steel |
| Deck Width | 82″–102″ (model dependent) | 82″–96″ |
| Max GVWR | 14,000 lb (HDT) | 14,000 lb |
| Tilt Deck Option | Yes (full hydraulic and gravity tilt models) | Yes (gravity tilt) |
| Ramp Style | Dove tail + flip ramps standard | Slide-in ramps and beaver tail |
| Warranty | 3-year structural | 3-year structural |
| Paint/Finish | Powder coat (multiple color options) | Powder coat or paint |
| Price Range | $8,500–$16,000 | $8,000–$15,000 |
Diamond C Car Hauler Models in Detail
Diamond C RSA — Entry-Level Open Car Hauler
The Diamond C RSA is the most affordable car hauler in their lineup — a solid bumper pull open deck with 7,000 lb or 10,000 lb GVWR. Features include a treated pine deck option, fold-flat ramps, and a standard 2-5/16″ coupler. Great for occasional use: hauling a project car, swap meet finds, or light equipment.
Diamond C HDT — Heavy Duty Tilt
The HDT is Diamond C’s flagship car hauler — a gravity tilt deck with 14,000 lb GVWR, 7,000 lb Dexter axles, and a 20’–22′ tilt deck that makes loading low-clearance vehicles effortless. No ramps to fumble with. Electric over hydraulic gravity tilt, standard EBT frame, and a patented 4-point tie-down system. This is the trailer that auction runners and exotic car dealers trust.
Kaufman Car Hauler Models in Detail
Kaufman Standard Car Hauler
Kaufman’s standard car hauler is a no-nonsense, heavy-wall steel open deck trailer with 7,000–10,000 lb GVWR. It comes standard with slide-in ramps, a treated pine deck, and E-track tie-down points. Kaufman’s standard models are often considered “overbuilt” compared to competitors at the same price point — which is exactly why buyers who put mileage on their trailers prefer them.
Kaufman Deluxe Car Hauler
The Kaufman Deluxe steps up with a wider deck (96″), heavier axles, and more tie-down points. Available in 14,000 lb GVWR for buyers who regularly haul multiple vehicles or one heavy performance car. Popular with car dealerships that run to auction lanes weekly.
Choose Diamond C If…
- You want a gravity tilt deck (the HDT is hard to beat for ease of loading)
- You want more model variety and options (Diamond C has more configurations)
- You prioritize a Texas-made trailer and wider dealer network support
- You need an entry-level option with a trusted brand behind it
Choose Kaufman If…
- You prioritize raw structural strength over weight savings
- You do high-cycle commercial use: dealership runs, auction transport, fleet hauling
- You’ve had issues with lighter-built trailers wearing out and want something overbuilt
- You want a brand known for outstanding customer support and parts availability
See Both Brands at Trailer Place
We carry both Diamond C and Kaufman car haulers in stock at our Wharton, TX location. Browse our full car hauler trailer inventory online or call (979) 532-1486 to ask about current availability, pricing, and which model makes sense for your specific use case. We also offer flexible financing and nationwide shipping. You might also find our best car hauler trailers guide helpful when comparing your options.