Rolls record sales

In fact, sales were up an amazing 31 per cent, with a total of 3538 cars sold globally during the year.

The previous record of 3347 cars was set in 1978 during the Silver Shadow II era.

Strong sales growth was reported across the globe, with notable results seen in Asia Pacific (up 47 per cent), North America (up 17 per cent) and the Middle East (up 23 per cent). China and the United States were the most significant individual markets.

The United Kingdom performed well, reporting 30 per cent growth in the year. In Continental Europe, Germany and Russia were the largest growth markets, each more than doubling sales compared to 2010.

"We had an outstanding year in 2011 and we should take a moment to reflect on this Great British success story," said Torsten Muller, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

"Our business is in excellent shape. We are developing our dealer network, moving into new markets like South America, expanding our manufacturing operation in West Sussex to meet global demand and have plans to develop our product range.

"At the core of this extraordinary success is a dedicated, committed and, above all, passionate workforce." The company's portfolio includes the pinnacle Phantom family products and the more recently-launched Ghost range.

Interest in Ghost  including Ghost Extended Wheelbase, launched to wide acclaim in April accounted for the lion's share of 2011 growth.

2011 also marked a record for the Rolls-Royce Bespoke personalisation programme, a service with Rolls-Royce's legendary hand-craftsmanship and attention to detail at its core.

Nearly every Phantom family model leaving the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood came with some element of bespoke personalisation, from unique paint colours, interior detailing and embroidery, to exquisite whole vehicle designs including champagne sets, humidors and picnic sets.

Last September, Rolls-Royce announced plans to expand its manufacturing plant at Goodwood, with over 1000 people employed on site.

This will help the company meet further growth in worldwide sales and satisfy demand for highly personalised Ghost and Phantom models. Expansion work will begin in February.