Ferrari flies.


2012 was Ferrari's best ever year despite the tail end of the global recession.

It seems that shaky world economics hasn't dulled the supercar market and, according to Ferrari's sales figures, there are still plenty of wealthy individuals prepared to pay  top dollar for an Italian Stallion.

LaFerrari

LaFerrari Image: Ferrari

Last year, the 66-year old Italian supercar company delivered more than 7,300 road cars to its global dealership network, a 4.5% increase on 2011.

Sales brought in an 8% increase in revenue at €2.4bn ($3.1bn putting the company amongst the elite of the world's luxury sector.

Despite rocketing demand for the marque across Greater China, the US continues to be the most fertile market for Ferrari, with record sales in 2012.  The UK, Switzerland and Germany also performed well.

Although the brand continues to bring delight to the 'Tifosi' - Italian fans - of the rampant horse brand, the recession did hit domestic sales which plummetted by 60% last year.

But, it wasn't just the cars themselves which helped the company to record profits.  Brand-related activities, including sales of accessories and licencing the brand, brought in a cool €50m ($65m).

2013 is likely to see further growth, not least because of the launch of the stunning limited edition (499 only 950 BHP hybrid LaFerrari - which includes the latest F1 electric KERS technology. The estimated price tag is between £750k and £1m ($1.1m - $1.5m).