For racing enthusiasts, few experiences match the adrenaline of high-speed races. While not everyone has the means or desire to participate in real racing, many turn to racing anime for that exhilarating experience.
Despite the limited number of modern car anime available, there are several titles worth exploring, even if many are older series. The selection may be sparse, but there are still impactful shows and films on the market.
Updated November 9, 2024 by Mark Sammut: This article now includes updated specifications for all listed racing anime.
Does Fall 2024 Have Any Racing Anime?
As we enter the final stretch of Fall 2024, the seasonal lineup proves to be one of the best we’ve seen this year. Among the returning sequels are highly anticipated series like Re:ZERO, Blue Lock, Bleach, and many more. Yet, while numerous exciting new titles like Dandadan and Uzumaki: Spiral into Horror have debuted, none of them pertain to racing.
Fortunately, Fall 2024 has at least one noteworthy racing series to look forward to.
MF Ghost Season 2
Following its successful debut, MF Ghost has established itself in the realm of top racing anime, but there is still room for growth. The upcoming second season will play a pivotal role in solidifying the show’s legacy, especially as the novelty of revisiting the Initial D universe has begun to fade. It must prove its distinct value beyond simply echoing its esteemed predecessor.
MF Ghost distinguishes itself by focusing on the core tenets of racing. The protagonist, Kanata, while occasionally feeling like a plot-utilized void, ultimately drives the narrative forward, showcasing thrilling driving sequences. The driving scenes are the highlight, often eclipsing other plot elements.
Best Car Racing Anime
16 Speed Racer X
MyAnimeList Rating: 6.28
Many Western viewers were first introduced to Speed Racer through the critically mixed 2008 live-action adaptation. The original series, while iconic, can be challenging for modern audiences to appreciate, so the 1997 reboot may be a preferable alternative. Despite attempts to revitalize the franchise, Speed Racer X fell short of its potential, with its planned 52 episodes reduced to just 34 due to a lack of direction and focus.
This rehash strives to capitalize on ’90s trends, resulting in a mixed experience—the series may provide nostalgia for some but ultimately serves best for collectors or die-hard fans.
15 eX-Driver
MyAnimeList Rating: 6.67
Set in a future where self-driving cars dominate the roads and humanity’s driving skills fade, eX-Driver follows a select group tasked with managing rogue AI vehicles. Released within a two-year span, this series and its prequel OVA produced a movie in 2002. While it may take itself too seriously at times, the action sequences, particularly in the movie, shine through, making it a solid, albeit flawed, viewing experience.
14 Tailenders
MyAnimeList Rating: 6.70
Clocking in at around 30 minutes, Tailenders delivers a fast-paced narrative set in a post-apocalyptic world. Two rivals aspire to surpass the legendary record of the vanished racer known as Loser King. Although the animation may not rival more recent titles like Redline, the colorful visuals captivate viewers. While depth may be lacking, the film’s energetic style keeps audiences engaged.
13 Future GPX Cyber Formula
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.43 (TV Series)
A lesser-known series from Sunrise, Future GPX Cyber Formula produced four OVA sequels over a decade. With a solid blend of animation quality and pacing, it explores a world of automated vehicles that still require human pilots. Its legacy remains as an entertaining throwback that resonates well even today.
12 Speed Racer
MyAnimeList Rating: 6.68
The original Speed Racer series from the ’60s is cherished despite its animation recycling and cheesiness. Its iconic theme still resonates with audiences long after its release. Although the show holds a significant place in the racing anime genre, its aging animation could deter new viewers.
11 Bakusou Kyoudai Let’s & Go
MyAnimeList Rating: 6.86 (Season 1)
Initiating a shift from traditional car racing, Bakusou Kyoudai Let’s & Go focuses on remote-controlled cars, appealing to childhood nostalgia. Although primarily aimed at a younger audience, this spirited series amounts to over 100 episodes and was popular enough to fuel additional seasons.
10 RideBack
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.25
Combining elements of tragedy with a charming character arc, RideBack follows a ballerina named Rin, whose life is transformed after discovering a robotic rideable device. While initially heartwarming, the series evolves toward a political narrative, blending character growth with thrilling races.
9 Chicken Molcar Chicken
MyAnimeList Rating: 8.01
Celebrated for its inventive charm, Pui Pui Molcar features adorable guinea pig cars that offer a uniquely relaxing viewing experience. Though its 2-minute episodes appeal more to younger audiences, this show captures the hearts of those seeking lighthearted entertainment.
8 Wangan Midnight
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.48
Set against the backdrop of Tokyo’s vibrant street racing scene, Wangan Midnight tells the gripping tale of Akio and his ambition to outrun the memories of defeat against a rival. The anime depicts both thrilling racing sequences and the darker side of street culture.
7 Appare-Ranman!
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.25
Mixing history with racing, Appare-Ranman! showcases a unique storyline that follows two distinctly different characters embarking on a journey across America’s racing circuits. While it offers intrigue, the focus often diverges from racing, prioritizing character interactions instead.
6 Capeta
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.81
Chronicling the development of its young protagonist as he transitions from a child to a potential professional driver, Capeta explicitly captures the progression of racing skills. This series stands out within the sports anime genre for its unique approach to the protagonist’s journey.
5 Oban Star-Racers
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.50
While it features interstellar podracing instead of traditional car competition, Oban Star-Racers blends thrilling adventure with emotional storytelling. This captivating French-Japanese co-production centers around Eva and her quest to join a racing team, leading to a climactic race determining humanity’s fate.
4 MF Ghost
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.56 (Season 1)
The sequel to Initial D, MF Ghost transports audiences to a future dominated by automated vehicles and highlights the remaining allure of manual street racing. With stunning visuals and engaging racing sequences, this series revitalizes aging themes while uniquely standing alone.
3 Overtake!
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.50
Sharing a season with MF Ghost, Overtake! provides a character-driven narrative in contrast to the elaborate races of its counterpart. Following photographer Kouya, who rekindles his passion through a struggling F4 driver, the story incorporates depth and introspection, expanding beyond mere racing sequences.
2 Redline
MyAnimeList Rating: 8.28
Often heralded as the pinnacle of racing anime, Redline dazzles with its extraordinary visuals and relentless pace. While it may lack depth in story and character development, its breathtaking animation and exhilarating races create a sensory experience unlike any other.
1 Initial D
MyAnimeList Rating: 8.35 (First Stage)
No racing anime has had a greater cultural impact than Initial D, which ran for two decades and produced a vast body of content. Following the story of Takumi Fujiwara as he rises through the ranks of street racing, Initial D balances compelling narrative arcs with iconic races, setting the standard for all subsequent titles in this genre. Its exhilarating Eurobeat soundtrack continues to resonate with fans around the world.
Great Racing Anime (That Don’t Involve Cars)
Car racing anime may not saturate the market, but there are equally fascinating racing-themed series beyond just vehicles. Here are a few noteworthy mentions:
Uma Musume: Pretty Derby
Uma Musume: Pretty Derby features fantastical horsegirls—reincarnated horses—attending special schools to hone their racing abilities. Surprisingly, it transcends its quirky premise, boasting well-crafted characters and an engaging plot.
Yowamushi Pedal
Rich in character development, Yowamushi Pedal portrays the trials of a high school cycling club, following protagonist Onoda as he navigates competitive cycling. Although conventional, it resonates due to its prioritization of character growth.
SK8 The Infinity
Exuding nostalgic vibes yet remarkably contemporary, SK8 The Infinity immerses viewers in an underground skateboarding culture. The character-driven narrative emphasizes friendship and individual passion for skating.
One Piece: Dead End Adventure
| Japanese Title | One Piece Movie 04: Dead End no Bouken |
|---|---|
| Studio | Toei Animation |
Although an unconventional choice, One Piece: Dead End Adventure presents a dynamic race featuring various pirate crews against a shadowy backdrop. While sometimes inconsistent, it stands as an engaging watch independent of the broader series.
Run With The Wind
As one of the standout sports anime of the 2010s, Run With The Wind follows Kansei University’s track team, showcasing personal growth through their shared goal of competing in the prestigious Hakone Ekiden. The compelling character arcs make it a must-watch for all anime enthusiasts.
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