Machine Hayabusa [Season 1 Episodes 1-21]

Alright, let’s dive into Machine Hayabusa, the 1976 anime series from Toei Animation that ran for 21 episodes. First off, if you’re into old-school racing anime with a side of revenge, this might be up your alley. The show centers around Ken Hayabusa, a driver out to avenge his brother’s death at the hands of the villainous Black Shadow. The main star? A super racing car named Hayabusa, packed with a hyper-power Cavalier Engine—sounds like something straight out of a Saturday morning cartoon, right?

Now, let’s talk about the vibe. Fans on MyAnimeList have pointed out that the series feels like a mix of classic shounen tropes and campy fun. One user mentioned getting “Inspector Gadget vibes” from the evil bad guy, who’s always scheming with a cat by his side. That’s a perfect way to put it—think over-the-top villains, dramatic race sequences, and the hero pulling off impossible wins at the last second. It’s not exactly high art, but it’s definitely entertaining if you’re into that retro charm.

The plot itself is pretty straightforward: Ken races against Black Shadow’s goons, each episode building up to a bigger showdown. The action is fast-paced, with cars zooming around tracks and pulling off wild stunts. But some viewers noted that the deaths in the races feel a bit silly—like, people just get taken out way too easily. It’s a product of its time, though, so you have to suspend disbelief a little.

What really stands out is the animation. For 1976, Toei did a solid job with the car designs and race scenes. The Hayabusa itself looks sleek and futuristic, even by today’s standards. The color palette is bold and vibrant, which adds to the show’s energetic feel. If you’re a fan of vintage anime aesthetics, you’ll probably appreciate the hand-drawn style and the way the cars move—no CGI here, just good old-fashioned cel animation.

The characters are a bit one-note, but that’s part of the charm. Ken is the typical hot-blooded hero, determined to win no matter what. Black Shadow is your classic mustache-twirling villain, cackling as he tries to sabotage Ken’s races. The supporting cast is mostly there to cheer Ken on or provide comic relief, but they don’t get much depth. Still, their interactions keep the story moving, and you can’t help but root for Ken as he faces off against the bad guys.

Now, let’s get to the ending. The final episode wraps up the conflict with Black Shadow, but some fans found it anticlimactic. The big showdown doesn’t have as much punch as you might expect, and the resolution feels a bit rushed. But hey, it’s a 21-episode series—they had to wrap things up somehow. Even so, the last push of power from Ken’s car is a classic shounen moment, and it’s satisfying to see him finally get his revenge.

Overall, Machine Hayabusa is a fun blast from the past. It’s not the most complex anime out there, but it’s full of heart and nostalgia. If you’re into racing, retro animation, or just want something light and entertaining, give it a watch. Just don’t go in expecting deep storytelling or complex characters—this is all about the thrills and the charm of 1970s anime.

So, would I recommend it? Yeah, if you’re in the mood for something simple and fun. It’s a great example of how anime used to be—unapologetically over-the-top and full of energy. Plus, the car designs alone are worth checking out. Whether you’re a long-time anime fan or just curious about the genre’s roots, Machine Hayabusa is a solid choice. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!