Roujin Z

Both anime are written by Katsuhiro Otomo and are made around the same period. The art and character designs are also quite similar. Plot-wise, both anime focus on an experiment which goes wrong and destroys part of the city, which leads to the police and military also getting involved. Both anime also have unique sci-fi elements and provide some commentary on the issues Japanese society (delinquent gangs in Akira / elderly care in Roujin Z). The main difference between the two anime is that Roujin Z has more comedic elements, while Akira is more cyberpunk. 

Roujin Z takes place in a close future where the elders are a burden for the younglings. A private company convinces the Ministry to use their prototype Z-001, an automatic care machine for old people, doing everything a nurse could do, and more. The prototype is tested on Mr Takazawa, Haruko's patient. Of course, the prototype isn't as safe as it's supposed to be, and Haruko will do her best to save her patient, who, through the machine, sends a call for help. From there, things seem to be out of control. While Akira is from 1988, Roujin Z is from 1991. The style is pretty similar, and both uses the ""brand new 3D technology"" for scenes. It's hand drawn all along, and very smooth. While Akira was pointed towards evolution, Roujin Z looks towards the AI and machines, and their moral implications in our lives. read more 

Both movies follow a side character that due to an incident transforms into a greater being and the main character has to prevent it from happening. They both have similar artwork and are both works by Otomo Katsuhiro. Roujin Z is more comedic that Akira though. 

Second episode - Stink Bomd is very similar, also made by Otomo. It also makes comedy about some hilarious gaffe which is not truly funny. In my opinion is not that good as Roujin Z, but anyway is a short film so it will worth your time for sure if you liked this film. The OST is great, it fits perfectly with the tone of the film. 

Roujin Z is similar to Memories' second short, "Stink Bomb". Both focus around a government program gone wrong, and focuses on something that was designed to be medically helpful being turned around and used for military purposes. They also both have a similar art style, similar character design, and have a similar type of humor. 

Both animes talk about an old man ignored by family and by society, until one day he receives powers from a machine. 

Self contained, beautifully stylistic mecha OVA's from the golden era of the genre, plenty of charming clichés to be found in both along with interesting mechanical design