BMW initially launched the second generation at the 1992 Paris Motor Show, presenting the new model only in a coupe body style.
Later on, in 1994, the German manufacturer extended its M3 range with the introduction of both convertible/cabriolet and saloon/sedan versions. The 4-door saloon M3 was initially available with a 3.0L straight-6 engine delivering 286 hp that was later updated to a 320-hp 3.2L unit (1995). The same year, the M3 saloon featured new wheels and a revised 6-speed manual transmission. This model was discontinued in 1998, being followed by both the coupe and cabriolet variants a year later.