Super Mario Kart / Characters
Super Mario Kart Characters: all eight drivers and rival behavior
Choose a handling class and recognize computer-only attacks.
Edition covered
Original SNES rules and eight-driver roster. Later remakes of these tracks use different handling, items and layouts.
6 characters · one picture per entry · open a picture for full size.
Characters
Quick notes
- The eight drivers form four pairs. Characters in each pair share their driving attributes.
- Computer rivals use special attacks. CPU drivers can deploy character-specific hazards that a human player cannot collect from Question Blocks.
- Donkey Kong Jr. is the playable Kong. The SNES roster predates adult Donkey Kong joining Mario Kart.
- Practice a complete cup with one class. A consistent kart makes the slippery Vanilla Lake turns and Ghost Valley edges easier to learn.
The eight drivers form four pairs
| Pair | Strength | Tradeoff |
|---|---|---|
| Mario and Luigi | Balanced performance | No extreme specialty |
| Peach and Yoshi | Fast acceleration | More care needed in bends |
| Bowser and Donkey Kong Jr. | High maximum speed | Slow acceleration |
| Koopa Troopa and Toad | Responsive handling | Lower maximum speed |
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Nintendo game information or original manual | www.nintendo.com |
| Original-edition mechanics and reference | www.mariowiki.com |






