Characters in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe are grouped into weight classes, which directly influence their base stats. While individual characters within a class might have slight variations, the general principles apply.
| Weight Class | Characters (Examples) | Speed | Acceleration | Weight | Handling | Traction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Baby Mario, Baby Peach, Dry Bones, Koopa Troopa, Toad, Shy Guy, Lakitu, Bowser Jr., Lemmy, Isabelle | Low | High | Low | High | Medium |
| Medium | Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, Yoshi, Tanooki Mario, Cat Peach, Villager (Male/Female), Inkling Girl/Boy | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Heavy | Bowser, Wario, Morton, Donkey Kong, Waluigi, Roy, Link, King Boo, Dry Bowser, Gold Mario | High | Low | High | Low | Medium |
Speed: Determines top speed. Higher is generally better for Time Trials and 200cc.
Acceleration: How quickly you reach top speed after being hit or starting. Crucial for recovering from items.
Weight: Affects collisions. Heavier characters push lighter ones around. Also influences off-road speed slightly.
Handling: How easily your kart turns. Higher handling makes tight turns easier.
Traction: How well your kart grips the road, especially on slippery surfaces like ice or dirt. Also affects off-road speed.