When you think of Emily Compagno, the first thing that likely comes to mind is her role as a dynamic Fox News personality. But there’s another side to her—one that’s fueled by a lifelong passion for cars. Specifically, a 1972 Ford Mustang Mach 1, affectionately named Malosa, which has become more than just a car to Emily. It’s a symbol of her love for classic muscle, her adventurous spirit, and a testament to the joy of chasing after what truly excites her.

The Spark That Started It All

Emily’s love affair with Malosa began in an unexpected place: a small garage in upstate California. As she recalls, “I remember the first time I saw Malosa. It was sitting there, looking a bit rough with dents and faded paint, but I could see it had potential. I walked around it three times before I even spoke to the owner—I just couldn’t stop staring.”

It wasn’t the pristine, perfect vehicle she had imagined, but something about the Mustang called to her. Emily knew that with a little love and attention, this car could become something extraordinary. And so began her months-long journey of restoration, where she poured her energy and heart into transforming Malosa into the custom-built beauty she now proudly owns.

The journey wasn’t easy. The car had plenty of wear and tear, and restoring a vintage Mustang was no small feat. But Emily was determined to bring the car back to its former glory, adding her own personal touch with upgrades that would improve both the look and the performance of the vehicle.

Restoration and the Roar of the Engine

The restoration process was as much a labor of love as it was a testament to Emily’s dedication. She didn’t just stop at a new coat of paint or minor tweaks—this was a full transformation. Emily swapped out the original engine for a 5.0L Gen 3 Coyote Aluminator engine, paired with a Tremec 6-speed transmission, blending vintage muscle aesthetics with modern performance.

“When I fired it up for the first time after the engine swap, I think I startled half the neighborhood,” Emily laughs, recalling the thrill of hearing the powerful roar of the engine for the first time. “The sound of that engine—it’s like it was speaking directly to me. That’s when I fell completely in love with the car.”

The roar of the engine became more than just a sound; it was a connection. Emily felt as though she was breathing life into the Mustang with every turn of the key. That moment, when the car’s engine roared to life, marked the beginning of her deep emotional connection with Malosa.

For Emily, it wasn’t just about making the car perform better; it was about honoring the Mustang’s heritage while enhancing its power and capability. The car wasn’t just a means of transportation—it was a statement, a reflection of her love for high-performance vehicles and her commitment to restoring a classic piece of Americana.

Weekend Drives and the Freedom of the Road

Owning Malosa isn’t just about the technical aspects—it’s about the freedom it represents. Emily often shares stories of her weekend drives along California’s coastal highways, where she can let loose, feel the wind in her hair, and reconnect with the simple joys of driving.

“There’s something almost magical about the Mach 1,” she says. “It’s not just a car; it’s a statement. It’s a reminder of why I fell in love with driving in the first place.”

For Emily, these drives aren’t just about speed or performance—they’re about connection. Connection to the car, to the road, and to herself. With the music blasting, the coast stretching before her, and the roar of the engine beneath her, Emily experiences a level of freedom that many only dream of.

“The wind in my hair, the music blasting—it’s a moment where everything feels right,” she says, reflecting on the pure joy she feels every time she’s behind the wheel of Malosa. “The Mustang gives me a sense of liberation that’s hard to put into words. It’s a moment where I can just be.”

A Bond with the Car Community

Emily’s enthusiasm for cars has also brought her closer to the automotive community. She frequently appears on shows like The Car Pro Show, where she offers insights into the world of restoration and shares her personal experiences with her Mustang. Emily’s journey with Malosa has sparked her involvement in car meets, where she connects with fellow Mustang lovers and car enthusiasts, trading tips, stories, and occasionally even racing on closed tracks.

“I call her Malosa because she has a bit of a feisty streak, just like me,” Emily jokes. “Every time I take her out, I’m reminded that passion is contagious. You don’t just drive a car; you live it.”

This love for cars is more than just a hobby for Emily; it’s a lifestyle. And it’s a part of her identity that she proudly shares with others, building bonds within the car community that continue to fuel her passion. She’s often found at local car shows and weekend meets, where her enthusiasm for classic American muscle is shared by others who understand the thrill of working on and driving high-performance vehicles.

Malosa: More Than Just a Car

For Emily, Malosa is more than just a muscle car—it’s a reminder of the importance of following one’s passions, no matter where they take you. Between her busy career, her fitness routines, and her legal expertise, her Mustang offers an escape. It’s a grounding force, a way for Emily to reconnect with herself, her love for cars, and the thrill of the open road.

“Owning this car reminds me to never lose sight of what excites me,” she says. “It’s muscle, it’s history, it’s freedom… and it’s mine.”

Malosa isn’t just a symbol of Emily’s love for cars—it’s a reflection of her adventurous spirit, her relentless drive, and her ability to find joy in the things that truly matter. In a world that often feels too busy or too hectic, Emily’s love for her Mustang offers a reminder to embrace life’s passions and pursue the things that make us feel alive.

For Emily Compagno, Malosa is more than just a car—it’s a part of her identity, a piece of Americana that speaks to her soul. Whether she’s cruising along the coast, sharing her restoration stories, or simply appreciating the power under the hood, Emily’s Mustang remains a roaring testament to the joy of living life on your own terms.