The Cars trilogy is beloved for its heartwarming underdog stories, inventive power systems (in the form of racing mechanics), and the way it consistently subverts expectations with nuanced character growth.
While mainstream racing anime like Initial D and Speed Racer are well-known, many lesser-known series offer similar thrills, emotional journeys, and unique storytelling.
Here are 15 underrated anime series that fans of the Cars trilogy should check out for their shared themes, creative narratives, and memorable casts.
1. Overtake! (2023)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Amazon Channel
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.50
- Studio: TROYCA
- Plot: A burnt-out photographer finds new purpose supporting a young F4 racer and his indie team, leading to unexpected personal growth and team camaraderie.
- Similarities: Focuses on character-driven racing, underdog themes, and emotional arcs, much like Cars‘ journey of self-discovery and teamwork.
2. éX-Driver (2000)
- Streaming: Tubi TV (free with ads)
- Episodes: 68
- MAL Rating: 6.67
- Studio: Actas
- Plot: In a future where AI controls all cars, three teens drive classic cars to stop rogue AI vehicles, blending sci-fi with racing action.
- Similarities: Underdog heroes, inventive racing scenarios, and a unique twist on the classic racing formula.
3. Wangan Midnight (2007)
- Streaming: DVD import (not widely available)
- Episodes: 26
- MAL Rating: 7.41
- Studio: A.C.G.T.
- Plot: A high schooler inherits a legendary, cursed Datsun Z and races to become the fastest on Tokyo’s Wangan highway.
- Similarities: Underdog story, street-racing culture, and character growth through rivalry and self-doubt.
4. Capeta (2005)
- Streaming: DVD import
- Episodes: 52
- MAL Rating: 7.98
- Studio: Studio Comet
- Plot: A young boy with a passion for racing builds his own go-kart and dreams of becoming a professional driver.
- Similarities: Classic underdog tale, focus on perseverance, and character development through racing.
5. Future GPX Cyber Formula (1991)
- Streaming: DVD import
- Episodes: 37
- MAL Rating: 7.43
- Studio: Sunrise
- Plot: In a near-future world, a teenager pilots a high-tech race car in a global racing tournament.
- Similarities: Innovative power systems, youthful ambition, and the thrill of competition.
6. Two Car (2017)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 6.13
- Studio: Silver Link
- Plot: Two high school girls form a sidecar racing team, navigating rivalry and friendship on and off the track.
- Similarities: Underdog team dynamics, character-driven sports drama, and subversion of expectations.
7. Oban Star-Racers (2006)
- Streaming: DVD import
- Episodes: 26
- MAL Rating: 7.59
- Studio: Hal Film Maker, Sav! The World Productions
- Plot: A girl enters an intergalactic race to find her missing mother, facing cosmic rivals and personal growth.
- Similarities: High-stakes racing, emotional journeys, and a unique visual style.
8. Immortal Grand Prix (IGPX) (2005)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 26
- MAL Rating: 7.06
- Studio: Production I.G
- Plot: Teams pilot mechs in high-speed races, blending sportsmanship with futuristic action.
- Similarities: Teamwork, underdog competition, and inventive race mechanics.
9. RideBack (2009)
- Streaming: Funimation (may vary by region)
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.26
- Studio: Madhouse
- Plot: A former ballet dancer discovers a passion for racing robotic motorcycles, finding a new sense of purpose.
- Similarities: Redemption arcs, unique racing vehicles, and personal transformation.
10. Redline (2009)
- Streaming: HiDive, Blu-ray
- Episodes: Film
- MAL Rating: 8.28
- Studio: Madhouse
- Plot: In a wild, no-rules intergalactic race, a daring driver risks everything for victory and love.
- Similarities: Over-the-top racing, vibrant animation, and the spirit of pushing limits.
11. Yowamushi Pedal (2013)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 38 (Season 1)
- MAL Rating: 7.92
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- Plot: A shy high schooler joins the cycling club, discovering his hidden talent and forming deep friendships.
- Similarities: Underdog spirit, team dynamics, and character growth through sports.
12. Megalo Box (2018)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Hulu
- Episodes: 13
- MAL Rating: 7.89
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- Plot: In a gritty future, an underdog boxer fights his way up using mechanical gear in the ring.
- Similarities: Subversion of expectations, gritty underdog rise, and stylized animation.
13. Sk8 the Infinity (2021)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 8.03
- Studio: Bones
- Plot: Two friends dive into the world of underground skateboarding races, forming bonds and rivalries.
- Similarities: Racing as a means of self-expression, dynamic friendships, and energetic visuals.
14. Bakusou Kyoudai Let’s & Go!! (1996)
- Streaming: DVD import
- Episodes: 51
- MAL Rating: 7.37
- Studio: Xebec
- Plot: Brothers compete in mini 4WD car races, facing off against rivals and learning the value of teamwork.
- Similarities: Family-friendly racing, inventive vehicles, and classic underdog themes.
15. Appare-Ranman! (2020)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 13
- MAL Rating: 7.26
- Studio: P.A. Works
- Plot: An eccentric inventor and a samurai team up for a transcontinental race across America in the 19th century.
- Similarities: Inventive race settings, quirky characters, and the thrill of overcoming the odds.
Why These Anime Work for Cars Trilogy Fans
These series stand out for their focus on underdog journeys, inventive race mechanics, and heartfelt character arcs-core elements that make the Cars trilogy so beloved.
Whether set in futuristic worlds, real-life circuits, or fantastical races, each anime brings its own unique twist to racing and personal growth.
For fans seeking more than just high-speed action, these underrated gems deliver emotional depth, creative storytelling, and the thrill of rooting for the unexpected winner.
