Review written on 8/1964.
It is not everyday one gets to drive a new automobile. Typically you find your self stuck with the same vehicle for at least five years before you purchase another one. And with the rate of depreciation and the amount of time we spend in traffic, this makes finding the right vehicle all the more important.
Donut believes their Maryland may be the best Touring to enter the market. How does it compare other Touring such as the Pennsylvania XT and 322? We'll find out in this month's Vehicle Review!
The first stop for the Donut Maryland was the track. I won't lie. I was scared. This Touring is built for performance. Donut cut no corners when designing this vehicle for speed. The vomit stains on the carpet prove that the 109 hp @ 5208RPMs 2162 cc I4 engine roars this rocket to a top speed of 106 mph in an impressive 21.310s 0 to 60 mph. With this 88 lb-ft of torque can tow 22 lbs. Once again. Not great, but not bad. I'm guilty wanting to steal this one for my self. On the track testing the Donut Maryland did have some slight issues. Of course it was not designed to be a track car. But as a Touring it should have better handling than it does. In most cases in the real world this shouldn't be any problem. But it is still sub-par at best.
While the Donut Maryland won't win any awards, It won't turn heads, and it certainly doesn't have a wow factor. The Maryland does have a very well design interior. It may not be top end, but it is more than enough for long trips and everyday drivers. It makes you feel good about life. Without feeling pompous.
Above average to good is what a friend of mine said when trying to load some junk into the 26 cu-ft of space inside the Donut Maryland. He was right! The Maryland is above average for vehicles in this segment. It is one of the more practical vehicles of this type on the market.
It may not be much in this day and age, but the Donut Maryland is above its class average when we looked at the physical quality of the machine. While other manufacturers cut corners, Donut looks to keep their image and public perception high. They do a good job at that with the Maryland.
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 folks over at Donut did a good job when it came to fuel economy. The Maryland gets a 30.3 mpg city and which is nothing to scoff at. While it may not be best in class, it is well above average.
The extra effort from Donut to make the Maryland feel safer pays off. The reinforced frame makes the vehicle much more impact resistant. Don't go driving into walls your self, just take our word for it.
In the end the Donut Maryland provide decent value for the money. It's not the best car in the Touring segment, but it won't disappoint. You could do a lot worse. If this model appeals to you I see no reason to dissuade you from it.