Like the first "Ridge Racer", the player normally starts with four cars. The remaining eight are selectable on winning the mini game before the title screen (the mini game is "Galaga '88" instead of the original game's "Galaxian"). They are mostly unchanged; their names (certain cars are named after other Namco titles) and specifications are similar to the first game. After the player wins the first three circuits, reversed versions are unlocked, and Time Trial features an additional opponent driving a secret car. There are three secret cars; the '13th Racing' (from the first "Ridge Racer") of the Novice course, and the new '13th Racing Kid' (of the Intermediate course) and 'White Angel' (of the Expert course). These cars are unlocked upon winning the respective course's Time Trial race.