On par with Initial D in terms of racing action imo. This is a ducking masterpiece. Maybe it's because it's an older manga, but I really think this should be in the spotlight some more! The storytelling is absolutely riveting, and you can't help but fall in love with each of the characters and especially the rivalry between MC Taira and childhood friend Minamoto. I love how this manga also goes into the technicalities of racing, so it feels like the main characters are actually racing on Formula race tracks and strategizing legitimately to compete. It actually feels plausible. The art is, of course, fabulous, but like I said before, I think the storytelling is just super well done. (i'm running out of extreme positive adjectives). You can feel the character's emotions, and they don't feel contrived at all. Masahito truly captures all of their complexities and little quirks that make them jump off the page almost, and he just knows how to write an exciting story. Like look at all his other works; Dance, Subaru! and it's own sequel are also top tier. The racing is so exhilarating as a reader, which is exactly what I look for in a sports manga. This ticks all my boxes, so if you're into sports manga or just want something great to read, please, please, PLEASE read this. This was worth every moment of my time, and I'm sad it's over…
Capeta