Right, it’s not exactly the same, but a title lien is not the same as a title in the name of the lender, and we still consider the car to be owned by the buyer

Right, it’s not exactly the same, but a title lien is not the same as a title in the name of the lender, and we still consider the car to be owned by the buyer during the loan period for every purpose except the right to discontinue the loan. I was hoping a more familiar example might help that person understand that sales agreements are a widespread practice and enforceable (for better and worse.)