Ron Gerstner

Ronald F. Gerstner (11.02.1939 - 07.25.2023) of Bennington, New York was a renowned craftsman and innovator in the world of custom cars and metalwork. His lifelong dedication to the art of automotive design and metal craftsmanship left an indelible mark on the industry, earning him national acclaim and a reputation as a visionary creator.

In 1959, Gerstner achieved a significant milestone by creating the iconic 1934 altered "Flip-Top" car. This masterpiece garnered national attention and accolades, propelling Gerstner into the spotlight of the automotive design world. The "Flip-Top" was not just a car but a true testament to Gerstner's unparalleled skill in custom bodywork and flawless paint application.

Ron's 34 was featured on the cover of Car Craft March 1965. Click here to order a copy of Car Craft March 1965 from eBay.

Ron painted Bill Leslie's 1931 Ford Model A Coupe in the 1960s.

Ron built Don Pritchard's 1957 Chevrolet.

In 1965 show promoter Bob Larivee commissioned Gene Baker to design him a crowd-pleasing bubble car top he could use to attract ticket buyers. Gene teamed up with Gerstner and built The Stiletto. The team completed the build in time for the 1966 Detroit Autorama, making it one of the last bubble tops builds before the bubble top bubble burst in the 1960s.

One of Ron's remarkable achievements was his collaboration with Ford Motor Company in the 1960s. In 1966, he constructed the Ford Ranger II. The Ford Ranger II was designed by Syd Mead, who worked for Ford's Advanced Styling Studio in the 1960s. They commissioned Ron to build this striking vehicle, a testament to his reputation as a master builder. "Ron built the Ford Ranger II for Ford Motor Company in 1966," Charles Anzalone told Sondre Kvipt of Kustomrama in August of 2023. Charles, who had known Ron for over six decades, began hanging out in his shop when he was 11. "He was always kind to me as a kid and let me hang around his garage to see all the cool cars he was building." Charles watched Ron build the Ranger II, and he recalled that Ron wanted to buy it and show it with some changes, "but Ford crushed it!" Photo courtesy of Core77.

The Ford Ranger II featured innovative Lambo doors—predating the iconic design choice associated with Lamborghini. Photo courtesy of Core77.

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Ronald F. Gerstner (11.02.1939 - 07.25.2023) of Bennington, New York was a renowned craftsman and innovator in the world of custom cars and metalwork. His lifelong dedication to the art of automotive design and metal craftsmanship left an indelible mark on the industry, earning him national acclaim and a reputation as a visionary creator.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Ron Gerstner's journey into the world of cars and metalwork began at the young age of 15 when he started working with cars and metal. This fascination led him to open "Gerstner Restyling" in 1959, which would later evolve into "Gerstner's Collision Service."

The Birth of a Showstopper: The 1934 "Flip-Top"

In 1959, Gerstner achieved a significant milestone by creating the iconic 1934 altered "Flip-Top" car. This masterpiece garnered national attention and accolades, propelling Gerstner into the spotlight of the automotive design world. The "Flip-Top" was not just a car but a true testament to Gerstner's unparalleled skill in custom bodywork and flawless paint application.

A Collaborator with Industry Giants

Gerstner's talents did not go unnoticed by industry giants. He was actively sought after by renowned names such as Hurst, Stewart-Warner, and Ford to lend his expertise in crafting unique and distinctive vehicles.

The Stiletto

In 1965 show promoter Bob Larivee commissioned Gene Baker to design him a crowd-pleasing bubble car top he could use to attract ticket buyers. Gene teamed up with Gerstner and built The Stiletto. The team completed the build in time for the 1966 Detroit Autorama, making it one of the last bubble tops builds before the bubble top bubble burst in the 1960s. Building the "Stiletto" from the ground up showcased his exceptional skills and further elevated his national reputation.

The Ford Ranger II Concept Car

One of Ron's remarkable achievements was his collaboration with Ford Motor Company in the 1960s. In 1966, he constructed the Ford Ranger II, a show car that featured innovative Lambo doors—predating the iconic design choice associated with Lamborghini. The Ford Ranger II was designed by Syd Mead, who worked for Ford's Advanced Styling Studio in the 1960s. They commissioned Ron to build this striking vehicle, a testament to his reputation as a master builder. "Ron built the Ford Ranger II for Ford Motor Company in 1966," Charles Anzalone told Sondre Kvipt of Kustomrama in August of 2023. Charles, who had known Ron for over six decades, began hanging out in his shop when he was 11. "He was always kind to me as a kid and let me hang around his garage to see all the cool cars he was building." Charles watched Ron build the Ranger II, and he recalled that Ron wanted to buy it and show it with some changes, "but Ford crushed it!" The workshop also witnessed some unforgettable moments. Charles reminisced when the legendary Hans Schmidt roared into the scene with his Cobra Dragon Snake, "Hells Bells." "One day, I was on my bike at the shop, and we heard a roar, and all of a sudden, here comes Hans Schmidt in his famous Cobra Dragon Snake called Hells Bells," Charles vividly recalls. Ron's garage was a hub of activity, attracting iconic cars and characters from the automotive world.

Innovations and Prototypes

Gerstner's reputation for innovation grew, leading him to undertake significant projects. In a notable achievement, he built two prototypes for General Motors, further solidifying his position as a visionary creator.

Local Legacy and Enduring Impact

While Gerstner's national acclaim was undeniable, his influence extended deeply into his local community. He was well-known for his distinctive black 1957 Chevy and 1966 Thunderbird, which became emblematic of his craftsmanship and style. Beyond his iconic creations, Gerstner's legacy also included numerous custom cars that earned him a plethora of awards, solidifying his status as a true master of his trade.

Retirement and Legacy

In 2018, Ron Gerstner retired from his active involvement in the automotive world. However, retirement did not mean a halt to his creative pursuits. He remained engaged in projects at home, consistently exploring new avenues for invention and creation.

Final Farewell

Ron Gerstner passed away on July 25, 2023. His contributions to the world of automotive design and metal craftsmanship will forever be remembered. The legacy he leaves behind serves as a testament to his unparalleled skills, innovative spirit, and enduring influence on the industry. His memory lives on in the intricate curves of the cars he crafted and the inspiration he ignited in countless individuals who continue to be captivated by the artistry of his work.

Ron Gerstner's Cars

Ron Gerstner's 1934 Ford Altered Coupe

Cars Built by Ron Gerstner

Don Pritchard's 1957 Chevrolet
The Stiletto

Cars Painted by Ron Gerstner

Bill Leslie's 1931 Ford Model A Coupe