Two years ago, former Formula 1 champion Jenson Button sold his custom Ford Bronco to a British entrepreneur Leo Eccles, who paid U.S. $166,000 for the off-roader. The Drive is now reporting that the disgruntled new owner of the car intends to sue Button and demand his money back.
One of the reasons the purchase failed to meet Eccles’ expectations is that the vehicle was registered in the name of Brittny Ward, ex-model and Button’s girlfriend at the time. The claimant argues that a car with no mention of the F1 driver in the ownership history hurts its reselling value. He adds that the couple owned the Bronco for four years and Button used to drive it himself.
According to the case materials, Button said he was ready to re-register the car to his name, but never did for some reason. Furthermore, Eccles specifically requested that some changes be made to the car prior to shipping, such as the addition or rear-seat safety belts. Allegedly, he also asked Button to store the car at his place until the registration and the delivery can be fully agreed upon – to which he also agreed. In the end, Eccles was unable to commission the Bronco for road use in South Africa. He now wants to void the deal and return the car.
Compared to the stock Bronco, the off-roader seen here received all-new suspension based on Bilstein shocks, 17-inch wheels shod in 35-inch tires, and Wilwood brakes. It was also swapped to a 4.9-liter Windsor V8. A custom soft top was added and the side windows were completely removed in this commission. The interior received a makeover in fine leather, a new steering wheel and an infotainment system with a touchscreen display.
