The Orion was designed as the world's first turboprop airliner, and was consequently way over-built. They weren't taking any chances on this new-fangled technology. They still use them to fly into hurricanes, the planes are perfect for the job, and bulletproof.

This sounds a lot like the A-10 Thunderbolt story. Piper originally bid to build this plane, and their design was essentially an updated P-51. They reasoned you don't need a jet to knock out tanks, and a proven prop design would not only be cheaper to build and operate, but would be more suitable for tactical reasons; but the Air Force brass insisted on a jet attack aircraft for the ground support role.

The Warthog turned to out to be a fine performer, albeit very expensive. Too bad. It would have been wonderful to see Mustangs in our skies again.