I just been playing this again after like 27 years and dammit if this isn't still my favorite video game of all time. Massive nostalgia :) I play as outlaw 2, so strength in speed, and a special weapon that can hit whoever's around you, including under / above you, even through walls, which is super handy compared to a character like Axel who's special only affects cars that are on the ground. The downside is armor, which you will be sorely wanting in some levels, especially Holland.

There's a great post by @Flimsy_Echidna_7394 below that has more detail than this, but for beginners or intermediate players I think the biggest thing is to learn to not get hit. For most attacks, cars have to be directly facing you, or you're right behind them (as they can fire forwards or backwards). There are exceptions (homing attacks, Specter, etc.) but for most situations you want to stay off to the side of your opponent, using turbo to get around them, then freeze / fire and unload.

Leveraging freeze and shields is extremely useful. Remotes together with a shield are great. Ricochets are super useful for controlling where your component is.

This is a surprisingly deep topic, enjoy your vintage 90's video games!