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This post is all about the best car anime.
If you’re a fan of anime and a lover of cars, then we’re here to give you the best of both worlds.
Car anime might sound like an odd combo – right until you’ve seen your first episode. After that, you’ll quickly find that it’s the perfect combo of fast cars, and the wild imagination of anime.
We’re talking epic soundtracks, irresistible plots, beautiful animation, insane vehicles, and characters you just can’t help but root for.
What more could you ask for?
In this post, we’ll share some of the best anime about cars that every car enthusiast should watch.
But first, let’s talk about some more things that make car anime so great.
Why Watch Car Anime?
In a world where there are animes about food, romance, monsters, and teen girls who double as superheroes, why would anyone choose to watch anime about cars??
Related: 14 Sailor Moon Car Accessories Every Real Fan Will Adore
Well, here are 3 good reasons:
1. Thrill and Drama
If you love a thrill and a bit of drama — or a lot of drama– car anime will give you what you’re craving.
It’s more than just high-speed racing – think captivating plots, intense rivalries, and inspiring personal growth stories.
2. Educational Value
You probably don’t choose an anime based on its ‘educational value‘, but hear us out.
Many car animes incorporate real automotive knowledge and racing techniques into the show, making it a great choice if you’re looking to learn more about cars in a fun way.
3. For the Culture
Believe it or not, car anime shows have a significant impact on car culture, and even influence automotive trends and enthusiast communities.
We bet you didn’t know that the Toyota AE86 was popularized by the anime Initial D (which we’ll talk about later).
The Best Anime About Cars
Below are just a few of the car anime shows and movies fans consider lifelong favorites.
Car Anime Shows
1. Initial D
For those just venturing into the world of car anime, “Initial D” is a classic starting point.
The show revolves around the world of illegal street racing in Gunma Prefecture and follows the story of Takumi Fujiwara, a high school student who unknowingly becomes a part of this world due to his exceptional driving skills.
The show has been praised for its exciting race scenes, character development, and its influence in popularizing car culture in Japan and other parts of the world.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Funimation
2. Appare-Ranman!
“Appare-Ranman!” is an adventurous anime set at the turn of the 19th century, where the socially awkward engineer Appare and the wise but cowardly samurai Kosame find themselves entering a cross-country race across America after being stranded with no money.
The series is known for its colorful cast of characters, its humorous and heartfelt moments, historical elements, and the excitement of the perilous ‘Trans-America Wild Race’.
It’s exactly the kind of show you’d want to binge-watch with all your favorite snacks.
Where to Watch: Amazon, Crunchyroll
3. Future GPX Cyber Formula
This series is just perfect for fans of racing, science fiction, and sports anime genres.
The show is set in the futuristic world of 2015, where the high-octane sport of Cyber Formula racing reigns supreme, featuring cars powered by pollution-free engines and advanced AI systems.
The protagonist — the young and talented Hayato Kazami — accidentally becomes the pilot of the Asurada, a top-tier Cyber Formula car developed by his father.
Thrust into the heart-pounding Cyber Formula Grand Prix, Hayato must outmaneuver seasoned racers and master the synergy between man and machine to claim the championship title.
Car Anime Movies
4. Redline
With its unique animation style and adrenaline-pumping action, “Redline” is a visual treat for both car and anime lovers.
It’s set in the distant future, where a man known as JP takes on great risks for the chance of winning the titular underground race. This anime movie offers a jaw-dropping experience with amazing animation and high-speed races.
You won’t want to look away.
Where to Watch: Amazon
5. Riding Bean
“Riding Bean” is an old-school classic in the car anime world. This show follows Bean Bandit, a courier in high-stakes chases and wild adventures.
The main plot revolves around an outlaw courier and his partner accused of kidnapping a millionaire’s daughter.
The question remains, are these accusations false … or true?
Where to Watch: Amazon
Special Mention : )
6. Bakuon!!
While not about cars, this anime still deserves its place on our list.
‘Bakuon!!’ is all about motorcycles and the girls who love them. It’s a slice-of-life series that beautifully captures the essence of youth and the passion for riding.
Where to Watch: Amazon
What is the Best Car Anime?
With all its raving reviews, there’s no doubt that Initial D is the best car anime ever — hands down.
Gamerant.com even describes it as probably the most iconic racing anime of all time, and we agree!
The races are intense, the Eurobeat soundtrack is iconic, and the character development? 10/10.
Is There Another Anime Like Initial D?
If it’s nice, do it twice they say.
Lucky for all of us, the writer of Initial D did just that.
The anime MF Ghost aired in 2023, and is a sequel to the iconic Initial D.
Set in the futuristic 2020s where self-driving electric cars rule the streets, the show follows the journey of Kanata Livingston, a 19-year-old Japanese-British racer who dives into the thrilling world of street racing, challenging the dominance of AI vehicles.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
New Car Anime (2023)
Below are some of the latest car anime shows and movies you should definitely check out.
MF Ghost (2023)
Overtake! (2023)
What Car Anime Is Coming Out 2024?
Highspeed Etoile
Set to premiere in 2024, this car anime revolves around the main character Rin Rindo an ex-ballet dancer who finds herself thrust into the world of speed racing.