You may be done with this game, and if so, props to a fantastic looking game! It really does feel like an F-zero game! The art, the track, the others cars, the drift during turns, it's all there! I love it!
If it's still an open project, here are my thoughts. F-zero had like a limited speed boost mechanic that's not here. And tbh, it missing makes the race feel a bit flat. And maybe the answer's not a copy of that mechanic, but it needs a little something to give the player a bit more control or something to do during the drive.
I like the damage meter. It forces a bit of control as you drive, especially on the second track. You can't just hold the gas down and try to weave through everything.
Last thing would be sprites. A left and right turning sprite for each car would help give this more visual depth and help the player "feel" the turns more.
All-in-all though, I really enjoyed playing this. It really fits that F-zero feel, but with a new look. Sound, art, feel. It's all there. Great job!