Rolls-Royce sales a silver lining

The British based company has fought off the credit crunch by expanding into overseas markets and producing new and exciting models.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom is arguably the most luxurious car in the world, and has become the choice for many of the rich and famous, including business tycoon Sir Alan Sugar.

During the summer of 2008 the £285,000 Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe was launched while Cristiano Ronaldo was reported to have bought a £350,000 Phantom Drophead Coupe.

Aimed at weekend driving by its owner rather than a chauffer, the Phantom Coupe has two rear-opening doors, a 15-speaker entertainment system and starlight headlining which twinkles like the night sky.

The Phantom Coupe is powered by a 6.75-litre V12 with more than 450bhp and 530lb/ft of pulling power.

Customers in the USA and United Arab Emirates have given Rolls-Royce a sales boost, with the Phantom Drophead Coupe especially popular.

Rolls-Royce Motors chief executive officer Tom Purves said: “This is a tremendous result and particularly gratifying considering the challenging economic environment manufacturers faced in the second half of 2008.

“Once again much of this success lies with the highly skilled and dedicated workforce that we have at Goodwood.”

A new Rolls-Royce is due later this year, codenamed RR4, which is smaller than the Phantom and promises a more sporting drive.

It is also expected to have a smaller price tag, which should widen interest in the Goodwood company’s model range further.