Pixar’s Cars franchise follows Lightning McQueen’s journey from a self-absorbed rookie to a humble, community-minded racer.
At its heart, Cars explores themes of personal growth, underdog perseverance, friendship, and the joy of the journey over the destination.
While car-centric anime is rare, several underrated series share these core ideas, whether through racing, unlikely friendships, or the thrill of competition.
Here are 15 anime series that Cars fans shouldn’t overlook, each offering unique spins on similar themes and character development.
1. Pui Pui Molcar (2021)
- Streaming: Netflix, YouTube
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1), 24 total
- MAL Rating: 8.01
- Studio: Shin-Ei Animation
- Awards: Widely acclaimed as a top children’s anime
Stop-motion guinea pig cars embark on adorable, wordless adventures, solving problems with teamwork and kindness.
Similarities: Anthropomorphic vehicles, lighthearted tone, and a focus on friendship and community over competition.
2. Capeta (2005)
- Streaming: Not widely available (check DVD/import)
- Episodes: 52
- MAL Rating: 7.82
- Studio: Studio Comet
A young boy’s passion for racing is ignited when his father builds him a go-kart, leading to a heartfelt journey from childhood to professional racing.
Similarities: Underdog story, coming-of-age, and the importance of perseverance and mentorship.
3. Appare-Ranman! (2020)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 13
- MAL Rating: 7.24
- Studio: P.A. Works
An eccentric inventor and his samurai companion join a wild cross-country car race across America, meeting rivals and forming bonds along the way.
Similarities: Road-trip adventure, inventive vehicles, and a focus on self-discovery and teamwork.
4. Wangan Midnight (2007)
- Streaming: DVD/import, select online platforms
- Episodes: 26
- MAL Rating: 7.48
- Studio: A.C.G.T.
A high schooler’s life changes after acquiring a legendary, cursed sports car, leading to intense street races and personal rivalries.
Similarities: Car culture, rivalry, and the consequences of obsession—mirroring Lightning’s journey from arrogance to humility.
5. eX-Driver (2000)
- Streaming: DVD/import
- Episodes: 6 (OVA)
- MAL Rating: 6.67
- Studio: Actas
In a future where AI drives most cars, only a select group of skilled teens can handle manual vehicles to stop rogue AI cars.
Similarities: Futuristic car action, youth empowerment, and the value of hands-on skills in a changing world.
6. Overtake! (2023)
- Streaming: AT-X (Japan), check simulcast services
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.50
- Studio: TROYCA
A photographer and a young Formula 4 racer form a bond, each overcoming personal setbacks as they chase victory together.
Similarities: Character-driven sports drama, mentor-mentee dynamics, and the emotional highs and lows of racing.
7. Two Car (2017)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 6.30
- Studio: Silver Link
Two high school girls with clashing personalities team up for competitive motorcycle sidecar racing, learning to trust and rely on each other.
Similarities: Unlikely partnerships, teamwork, and the excitement of motorsport competition.
8. Yowamushi Pedal (2013)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Crackle
- Episodes: 137+
- MAL Rating: 7.96
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
A shy anime fan discovers his hidden talent for cycling, joining a high school team and growing through fierce races and friendships.
Similarities: Underdog rise, camaraderie, and the thrill of racing—even if it’s on bikes, not cars.
9. Immortal Grand Prix (IGPX) (2005)
- Streaming: Toonami, DVD
- Episodes: 26
- MAL Rating: 7.11
- Studio: Production I.G, Cartoon Network
Teams pilot giant mechs in high-speed races, balancing strategy, teamwork, and rivalry in a futuristic league.
Similarities: Unique racing format, team focus, and overcoming adversity.
10. Future GPX Cyber Formula (1991)
- Streaming: DVD/import
- Episodes: 37
- MAL Rating: 7.31
- Studio: Sunrise
A young driver gets the chance to race in a futuristic Grand Prix thanks to an advanced AI car, facing both technological and personal hurdles.
Similarities: High-tech racing, youth ambition, and the importance of heart over hardware.
11. Tailenders (2009)
- Streaming: DVD/import
- Episodes: 1 (OVA)
- MAL Rating: 6.86
- Studio: Picograph
After a near-fatal crash, a racer receives a mechanical heart and a second chance, competing in wild, imaginative races.
Similarities: Redemption arc, inventive vehicle designs, and the will to keep racing against all odds.
12. Super Grand Prix (1977)
- Streaming: DVD/import
- Episodes: 44
- MAL Rating: 6.94
- Studio: Nippon Animation
A young man dreams of F1 stardom after a life-changing accident and the gift of a prototype car, pushing through setbacks to chase his goals.
Similarities: Classic underdog sports story, mentorship, and the value of resilience.
13. Lupin III: Is Lupin Still Burning? (2018)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 1 (Special)
- MAL Rating: 7.19
- Studio: Telecom Animation Film
Lupin and his gang are chased through wild car chases and comedic escapades, blending action with slapstick fun.
Similarities: Over-the-top vehicular antics and a playful tone reminiscent of Cars’ lighter moments.
14. RideBack (2009)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.34
- Studio: Madhouse
A former ballet dancer discovers a passion for racing futuristic motorcycle-robots, finding new purpose and confidence.
Similarities: Self-discovery through racing, unique vehicles, and overcoming personal limitations.
15. Redline (2009)
- Streaming: Blu-ray, select digital platforms
- Episodes: 1 (Film)
- MAL Rating: 8.28
- Studio: Madhouse
- Awards: Multiple animation awards
A daredevil racer enters the galaxy’s most dangerous race, risking everything for glory in a visually stunning spectacle.
Similarities: Dazzling animation, high-stakes racing, and the spirit of pushing limits for the love of the race.
Why These Anime Work for Mentioned Anime Fans
Each of these anime captures the spirit of Cars through themes of growth, teamwork, and the thrill of racing—whether on four wheels, two, or something entirely different.
They highlight the importance of friendship, the underdog’s journey, and the joy found in both victory and defeat.
For fans seeking heartfelt stories, inventive vehicles, and character-driven adventures, these series offer fresh perspectives and plenty of heart.
