Review written on 5/1958.
Competition in the Touring segment has just gotten a little more heated. Donut has launched the Maryland. Is this Touring enough to unseat the 8045 or will it be worse than the H8699. Don't worry! We have the answers.
On my first track run in the Donut Maryland suffered 2 cracked rips and a ruptured spleen. Not from wrecking it, but from the sheer raw power of this Touring. The Maryland's 103 hp @ 4962RPMs 2551 cc I4 engine drives you into the seats while you accelerate with an impressive 22.271s 0 to 60 mph time and a top speed of 104 mph. The Maryland is able to keep this speed all the way up to the the top speed of 104 mph. With this 88 lb-ft of torque can tow 22 lbs. Once again. Not great, but not bad. Compared to its peers in the Touring class the Donut Maryland selling point should not be driveability. The Maryland offers bare bones handling. There is just enough grip in the wheels to keep you from flying off the side of a cliff... But not much. On the track, it is not much better. After my hospital visit, I came to the conclusion that this is the best Touring I've ever tested on the track. Buy IT NOW!!!
Once track testing was over it came time to look at the Donut Maryland's interior. We found that it was very bare bones. So much so that we could not stand to be in it for long. It seems Donut was trying to make something retro by filling the vehicle with decades old styling and gadgets. We recommend looking at other vehicles if you plan on buying a long range vehicle.
When it comes to cargo, its 26 cu-ft of space is better than most vehicles of its type, but far from the best. We believe there is enough room in the Donut Maryland to fill all your needs without over doing it.
The workmanship put into the Donut Maryland is unparalleled in this market. From its hand finished panelling to ultrahigh quality materials the Maryland is truly a work of art that should last a life time. It seems Donut has perfected the perfect.
The Donut Maryland was designed with longevity in mind. The vehicle is sturdy and easy to maintain. It will last as long as you want it.
The 23.9 mpg city and might not look great. And it isn't. But there are worst options out there. That is no excuse however. The Donut Maryland needs to squeeze out a little more mileage if it ever wants to be a contender.
While being safe is important, Donut did not believe it was a priority in the Maryland. The vehicle does provide enough safety features to be consider average for its class. It does not add anything more than that however.
I was happy with the time I spent in the Donut Maryland. This car is truly magnificent. I think future generations will look back at this vehicle and think, "I wish I owned one of these." It is absolutely one of the best Touring you can buy. An instant classic that others in the segment will be compared to. I wish I could spend more time with the Maryland but it is time for them to take it away. I believe I might go buy one myself.