Peter Sauber says seventh place a boost for his team ahead of 2012 season

The Swiss squad, which finished in eighth place last season, held on to seventh after having arrived just one point ahead of Toro Rosso in the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Kamui Kobayashi managed to extend the gap over his rivals by finishing in ninth place at Interlagos on Sunday.

"It was an important result today," said Sauber. "We were able to move up one position in the Constructors' Championship compared to last year, which is good for the morale of the team.

"Kamui drove a fantastic race, making up positions in the early laps and then driving fast and consistently to take two championship points. Thanks to the whole team at the track, in Hinwil and to our partner Ferrari."

Kobayashi was delighted with his race and with his team's position, but conceded Sauber will need to work very hard during the winter after its form dropped in the second half of the season.

"We worked a lot on the race pace and I'm happy that I was able to score in the final two races of the season," he said. "It was important for us to finish ahead of Toro Rosso and I'm glad we managed to do that. The strategy was good and the car was as well - many thanks to the guys.

"After we have struggled a bit in the second half of the season, we have a lot to work on over the winter. I think it is good that we will have the same team with the same drivers again, but we want to become stronger."

His team-mate Sergio Perez finished the race in 13th position.