This represents 30% growth when compared to the previous year and is the third consecutive year of growth. It leaves Lamborghini well on track to draw even with previous record sales.

“In spite of ongoing worldwide financial and economic uncertainties, Lamborghini has delivered a very satisfying performance in 2012, confirming the strength of our product and commercial strategy. We will continue to work on the development of our product range to address further growth in the future,” said Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Lamborghini.

The uptick in 2012 was driven by the first full year of sales for the new Aventador LP 700-4 (922 units) while the Gallardo turned in an almost stable performance compared to 2011 (1,161 units sold in 2012) and reached a total of more than 13,000 cars delivered since its launch.

With the downturn in European sales Lamborghini's distribution is now evenly balanced among the three global regions: Europe 29%, America 28% (of which USA is 25%) and Asia Pacific 35% (of which China accounts for 15%). The Middle East and South Africa account for 8%.

Despite global market headwinds Lamborghini grew in Europe by 34% versus 2011, in the Americas by 50% (USA +53%) and in Asia Pacific by 9%.

In 2013 the Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster will join the coupé. Initial pre-order expectations for this model have been exceeded and the order bank for both versions covers the next 15 months.

For 2013, a focus for the ‘raging bull’ brand includes further investments into motorsport. Following four seasons in Europe and the first season in Asia, the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo has made its mark as the only one-make four-wheel drive series and the fastest one-brand racing series in the world. In 2013, the series will run on three continents, entering the USA with a new series for the Americas.

In addition, Lamborghini will officially enter the globally established GT3 series worldwide with the Gallardo. Complementary racing activities for drivers at other skill levels will also be offered.

In 2013, Lamborghini will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the company’s foundation. Dozens of activities around the world will be held to honour the past, present and future of the brand. With the greatest reunion of Lamborghini drivers from around the world ever to be held in Italy in May, the “Grande Giro Lamborghini 50th Anniversary” will lead hundreds of Lamborghinis and their owners on a tour through Italian cities and landscapes. The tour will finish in Sant’Agata Bolognese, the birthplace and hometown of Automobili Lamborghini, in a festive tribute on May 11.