Abstract: A differential for the axle drive of a motor vehicle has a differential case which is made of thin-walled metal sheets and which is freed of forces caused by the bevelled gearing of the differential bevel gears and axle shaft gears. The axle shaft gears are disposed in a separate cage which absorbs the forces acting in the direction of the axle drive shafts, and the forces acting in the direction of the axle bolt are supported, for example, directly in the ring gear. As a result, the differential can be manufactured with a high stiffness while its weight and costs are reduced.