The best episode directed by Hiroshi Kotaki is "The Battle Begins", rated 9/10 from 3 user votes. It was "written by Hiroshi Toda". "The Battle Begins" aired on 5/9/1998 and is rated 0.0 point(s) higher than their second highest rated, "The Five Consecutive Hairpins".
The match between the SpeedStars and the RedSuns is set to begin. Just as Iketani makes the desperate decision to put Kenji up against Keisuke, the Eight-Six appears - with Takumi behind the wheel.
Director: Hiroshi Kotaki
Writer: Hiroshi Toda
Takeshi and Takumi speed toward the finish line! Victory is at hand for the driver who can conquer the final challenges of the course - five treacherous hairpin curves.
Director: Hiroshi Kotaki
Writer: Nobuaki Kishima
At Itsuki’s behest, Takumi heads out to watch an uphill race between two of his former foes - Takeshi of the NightKids and the RedSuns’ Keisuke.
Director: Hiroshi Kotaki
Writer: Nobuaki Kishima
When Iketani takes Mako out for a good time, his friends decide to tail the duo and figure out what she’s all about. They soon discover her greatest talent: outdriving them all on Mt. Usui!
Director: Hiroshi Kotaki
Writer: Nobuaki Kishima