Rolls-Royce has achieved its best sales in its 108-year history, with the world’s mega-rich buying up 3,575 Phantom and Ghost models during 2012.

What’s more impressive is that the new sales level is on the back of record numbers in 2011, where Rolls-Royce managed to sell 3,538 vehicles, and this, at a time, when many parts of the globe are experiencing recession-like conditions.   

The U.S. regained its position as the biggest single market for Rolls-Royce sales, overtaking China this year. However, it was strong growth in other markets that helped solidify the record results.  

The third biggest market was Mainland Europe, which includes Russia, followed by the Middle East and Asia Pacific. The single most successful dealership was Rolls-Royce of Beijing, China.

The past year also marked another record for the Rolls-Royce Bespoke personalization program. Nearly every Phantom model (95 percent) and three out of every four Ghosts (73 percent) were ordered with some level of personalization.

Rolls-Royce isn’t making any claims of another record in 2013 but the groundwork for another bumper year of sales has been established. This past year saw Rolls-Royce undertake an aggressive expansion plan that has seen its number of markets worldwide reach more than 40. Thirty new or refurbished dealerships opened across the world, taking the total to over 100 for the first time in the company’s history.

This year Rolls-Royce will also be celebrating the 10th anniversary of the latest Phantom, the first model to be launched under the watchful eye of German parent BMW. As part of the celebration, a major new extension to the company’s Goodwood plant in the UK will be opened to help the company meet increasing global demand for highly-personalized Ghost and Phantom models.

We’re also expecting the launch of new two-door Ghost models in 2013. This is in addition to the existing lineup of Phantom, Phantom Extended Wheelbase, Phantom Drophead Coupe and Phantom Coupe, Ghost and Ghost Extended Wheelbase models.