1961 Pontiac Safari Performance Engines

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Keep Your 1961 Pontiac Safari in Top Shape with Quality Performance Engines

Whether you’re repairing or upgrading your Performance Engine, using high-quality parts is key to keeping your 1961 Pontiac Safari looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Performance Engine Oil Pan Gaskets, Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats, and Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets. Whether you’re replacing a damaged part or enhancing your truck’s style and protection, you’ll find exactly what you need to get the job done right.

Competitive Prices and Extensive Inventory

The average price for a 1961 Pontiac Safari Performance Engine at Advance Auto Parts is around $251.82, with a range that starts at $11.99 and goes up to $600.99. With 31 options in stock from 4 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like Competition Cams Valve Seals, 503-16, Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7812, and FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET, 1814 start at just $30.49 and offer a great balance of form and function.

Explore Related Parts

While you’re upgrading or replacing your Performance Engine, don’t forget to check out other key components like Performance Distributors and Performance Fuel Systems. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re here to help you keep your 1961 Pontiac Safari in peak condition, inside and out.

Essential 1961 Pontiac Safari Performance Engines

Mr. Gasket – Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostat – 160 Degree Brass & Copper, 4363 (Part No.4363)

Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostat - 160 Degree Brass & Copper, 4363

from

$31.99
Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostats are designed to resist large variations of coolant pressure at high RPM (revolutions per minute). This allows them to fully open at correct temperature consistently regardless of engine RPM. The design also provides the high flow that engines operated a higher RPM need. This thermostat also features a copper/brass construction to further resist corrosion. Mr. Gasket High Performance / High Flow Thermostats are suitable for street, drag race, or oval track applications.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams High Energy Timing Set for ’55-’81 Pontiac 265-455, 3212 (Part No.3212)

Competition Cams High Energy Timing Set for '55-'81 Pontiac 265-455, 3212

from

$63.99
Competition Cams High Energy Timing Set for ’55-’81 Pontiac 265-455, 3212.
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET, 1814 (Part No.1814)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET, 1814

from

$30.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Big Mutha’ Thumpr 243/257 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 51-602-5 (Part No.51-602-5)

Competition Cams Big Mutha' Thumpr 243/257 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 51-602-5

from

$325.99
Designed to deliver an aggressive, hard-hitting exhaust note at idle, the Thumpr camshaft series from COMP Cams also delivers excellent horsepower gains and a broad torque curve. A perfect choice for muscle cars and street rods.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 224/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 51-223-4 (Part No.51-223-4)

Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 224/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 51-223-4

from

$309.99
HYDRAULIC – Xtreme Energy: Good for street machines, slightly rough idle. 2000+ stall.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Valve Seals, 503-16 (Part No.503-16)

Competition Cams Valve Seals, 503-16

from

$223.99
COMP Cams offers a complete line of valve stem seals, from the umbrella seals to the positive-stop Teflon seal. These seals are a must to keep unwanted oil from entering the combustion chamber through the clearance in the valve guides. The umbrella seal is normally used when a larger-than-stock diameter spring is used, in the case of a double spring, the positive-stop Teflon seal is used. The umbrella seals require no machining, but with the Teflon seal it is necessary to disassemble the heads and machine the top of the guide with a special .530 diameter cutter. Whenever you are planning an engine overhaul or a cam change, don’t forget the valve seals.
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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Intake Manifold Gasket, 7280 (Part No.7280)

Edelbrock Intake Manifold Gasket, 7280

from

$30.99
Edelbrock part No: 7280 Intake Gaskets for 1961-79 3626-389-400-421-428-455 Pontiac engines allow for optimum flow and performance. Any gasket can create a seal, but a good gasket can do it with less clamping force, and for a longer period of time. The new MP-2N Micropore technology does not use solvents making our gaskets environmentally friendly. Impervious to most chemicals, this synthetic fiber composite provides a high recovery under load. This means that when compressed, the gasket will conform to any imperfections on the sealing surface even using lower flange pressures. A nitrile bead around each port opening makes the seal even better.
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET SET, 1233 (Part No.1233)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET SET, 1233

from

$34.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions
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Competition Cams – "Competition Cams Valve Spring, 1.384"" 2 Spring, 988-1" (Part No.988-1)

"Competition Cams Valve Spring, 1.384"" 2 Spring, 988-1"

from

$11.99
“Competition Cams Valve Spring, 1.384″” 2 Spring, 988-1. ”
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 212/218 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL51-221-4 (Part No.CL51-221-4)

Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 212/218 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL51-221-4

from

$397.99
Featuring a quicker valve opening, the Xtreme Energy camshaft profile provides increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve than older, slower grinds. Designed to increase performance without sacrificing driveability and creature comforts.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 230/236 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL51-224-4 (Part No.CL51-224-4)

Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 230/236 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL51-224-4

from

$416.99
PONTIAC HYDRAULIC CAM AND LIFTER KIT – Xtreme Energy: High performance street, very strong mid-range, headers and 2200+ stall.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Magnum 230/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL51-234-4 (Part No.CL51-234-4)

Competition Cams Magnum 230/230 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL51-234-4

from

$397.99
An older member of the COMP Cams grind family, the Magnum series of camshafts offers excellent performance gains over stock without the added wear and tear associated with more aggressive camshafts.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL51-600-5 (Part No.CL51-600-5)

Competition Cams Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL51-600-5

from

$451.99
Designed to deliver an aggressive, hard-hitting exhaust note at idle, the Thumpr camshaft series from COMP Cams also delivers excellent horsepower gains and a broad torque curve. A perfect choice for muscle cars and street rods.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 212/218 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit, K51-221-4 (Part No.K51-221-4)

Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 212/218 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit, K51-221-4

from

$600.99
Featuring a quicker valve opening, the Xtreme Energy camshaft profile provides increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve than older, slower grinds. Designed to increase performance without sacrificing driveability and creature comforts.
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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit, 2157 (Part No.2157)

Edelbrock Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit, 2157

from

$376.99
“Edelbrock Performer-Plus Camshaft No: 2157 is designed for 350-455 Pontiac V8 engines and produce optimum torque from the low-end to the mid-range. Performer-Plus camshafts should be matched with Performer manifolds for vehicles operating from off-idle to 5500 rpm. The Performer-Plus No: 2157 is a smooth idling cam for daily drivers, trucks, vans, RVs and 4x4s. You can expect a major improvement in throttle response and torque. In the manifold section you’ll find torque graphs showing the power gains from Performer manifolds and Performer-Plus cams. All camshafts include flat tappet lifters (except for cams designed for use with stock roller lifters), assembly lube and instructions. This cam produced 387HP and 439 Ft Lbs of Torque when paired with Performer intake manifold No: 2156 and Performer RPM cylinder heads No: 60599. Camshaft specifications: – Intake duration: 204 Degrees – Exhaust duration: 214 Degrees – Intake lift: .420″” – Exhaust lift: .442″” – Lobe separation: 110 Degree – Intake Center Line: 105 Degree – Vacuum: 15″””
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1016 (Part No.1016)

FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1016

from

$54.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.
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Edelbrock – "Edelbrock Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Pontiac, 4.20"" bore size, 7381" (Part No.7381)

"Edelbrock Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Pontiac, 4.20"" bore size, 7381"

from

$58.99
“Edelbrock part No: 7381 head gasket is intended for Pontiac engines 1961-1976, 326-389-421-428-455 engine sizes. This gasket comes as a set and has a 4.200″” bore size, 0.038″” compressed thickness and 8.96 cc volume.”
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET, 1622 (Part No.1622)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET, 1622

from

$34.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET, 1623 (Part No.1623)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET, 1623

from

$23.29
Fel-Pro® Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.
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Mr. Gasket – Mr. Gasket Cork Valve Cover Gaskets, 576 (Part No.576)

Mr. Gasket Cork Valve Cover Gaskets, 576

from

$45.09
Mr. Gasket Performance Valve Cover Gaskets are high-density cork/rubber blend gaskets that use evenly sized cork particles distributed evenly throughout the rubber binder. The result is a compressible valve cover gasket without leak paths. These gaskets create a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot engine oil. Provides excellent flange sealing and durability. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use.
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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7812 (Part No.7812)

Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7812

from

$83.99
Edelbrock part No: 7812 Performer-Link timing chain is for use with Edelbrock or stock cams. They have a solid-bushing chain for a true bearing surface that rolls with the sprockets, eliminating chain stretch. Cam sprockets are made from 35,000 psi tensile strength cast iron. Crank sprockets are made from billet SAE-1144 steel and induction heat treated. Four Performer-Link sets are stock replacement parts and 50-state legal (see listings in bold type). All other sets have three keyway setting points to ensure accurate timing selection for early or late-model vehicles. Performer-Link timing sets are not for use above 6500 rpm. Performer roller chain sets are engineered to operate up to 6500 rpm. Never hammer directly on chain or sprockets. You can crack the hardened links and pins and cause early failures. Use a sleeve for installations that require hammering, a brass drift punch may be used if you carefully alternate blows on either side of the sprocket to avoid cocking. Never stretch the chain with a screwdriver. Check for clearance between the timing chain and block and between the chain and front cover before reassembly. Be sure that both cam and crank sprockets are exactly in line with each other. Misalignment can cause chain to break.
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Most Popular Performance Engine Oil Pan Gasket for 1961 Pontiac Safaris

Enhance your 1961 Pontiac Safari with this popular Performance Engine Oil Pan Gasket we have in stock, for $30.49.

FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET, 1814 (Part No.1814)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET, 1814

from

$30.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions
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Best-Selling 1961 Pontiac Safari Performance Engine Coolant Thermostat

Upgrade your Safari with our best-selling Performance Engine Coolant Thermostat with a 4 Starts rating across 12 reviews.

Mr. Gasket – Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostat – 160 Degree Brass & Copper, 4363 (Part No.4363)

Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostat - 160 Degree Brass & Copper, 4363

from

$31.99
Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostats are designed to resist large variations of coolant pressure at high RPM (revolutions per minute). This allows them to fully open at correct temperature consistently regardless of engine RPM. The design also provides the high flow that engines operated a higher RPM need. This thermostat also features a copper/brass construction to further resist corrosion. Mr. Gasket High Performance / High Flow Thermostats are suitable for street, drag race, or oval track applications.
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Top-Quality Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets for 1961 Pontiac Safaris

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gasket for Pontiac Safaris and enjoy top-notch performance from $30.99.

Edelbrock – Edelbrock Intake Manifold Gasket, 7280 (Part No.7280)

Edelbrock Intake Manifold Gasket, 7280

from

$30.99
Edelbrock part No: 7280 Intake Gaskets for 1961-79 3626-389-400-421-428-455 Pontiac engines allow for optimum flow and performance. Any gasket can create a seal, but a good gasket can do it with less clamping force, and for a longer period of time. The new MP-2N Micropore technology does not use solvents making our gaskets environmentally friendly. Impervious to most chemicals, this synthetic fiber composite provides a high recovery under load. This means that when compressed, the gasket will conform to any imperfections on the sealing surface even using lower flange pressures. A nitrile bead around each port opening makes the seal even better.
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Top Picks for 1961 Pontiac Safari Performance Engine Valve Cover Gasket Sets

Invest in one of our 2 durable Performance Engine Valve Cover Gasket Sets for your 1961 Pontiac, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.

FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET, 1622 (Part No.1622)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET, 1622

from

$34.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET, 1623 (Part No.1623)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET, 1623

from

$23.29
Fel-Pro® Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.
See More

Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets for 1961 Pontiac Safaris

Make a smart move for your 1961 Pontiac Safari with products all priced from $54.99 to $58.99.

Edelbrock – "Edelbrock Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Pontiac, 4.20"" bore size, 7381" (Part No.7381)

"Edelbrock Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Pontiac, 4.20"" bore size, 7381"

from

$58.99
“Edelbrock part No: 7381 head gasket is intended for Pontiac engines 1961-1976, 326-389-421-428-455 engine sizes. This gasket comes as a set and has a 4.200″” bore size, 0.038″” compressed thickness and 8.96 cc volume.”
See More

FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1016 (Part No.1016)

FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1016

from

$54.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.
See More

FAQs for 1961 Pontiac Safari Performance Engines

What are the best-selling Performance Engines for 1961 Pontiac Safaris?

Out of 31 Performance Engines that fit 1961 Pontiac Safaris, the following parts are the top sellers:

What’s the price range for 1961 Pontiac Safari Performance Engines?

The prices of Performance Engines for the 1961 Pontiac Safari range from $11.99 up to $600.99 for the most premium parts.

What is the average price of a Performance Engine for a 1961 Pontiac Safari?

The average price for Performance Engines for the 1961 Pontiac Safari is $251.82. Keep in mind the variety of part types within our Performance Engine category, where you are likely to find a wide range of prices across a variety of parts and components.

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Performance Engines for other Pontiac Safari model years?

Yes, we carry Performance Engines for 7 model years of Pontiac Safaris between 1955 and 1965. The following model years are the most popular for Performance Engine purchases: 1965, 1964, 1963, 1962, 1960, 1959, 1958, and 1955.

What are the cheapest Performance Engines for my 1961 Pontiac Safari?

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Performance Engines for any other 1961 Pontiac models?

Yes. We stock Performance Engines for 4 other popular 1961 Pontiac models. Some of the most popular are 1961 Bonneville Performance Engines, 1961 Catalina Performance Engines, 1961 Ventura Performance Engines, 1961 Tempest Performance Engines, and 1961 Star Chief Performance Engines.

What types of Performance Engines do you sell for my 1961 Pontiac Safari?

As of 8/2/26, these are some of the most in-demand types of Performance Engines for a 1961 Pontiac Safari:

Can I get help with 1961 Pontiac Safari Performance Engine orders?

Contact our customer support team by chat or phone, through the help desk page, where you can find instant answers about Pontiac Performance Engines and more.

What is your return policy for Pontiac Safari Performance Engines?

Advance Auto Parts keeps returns simple. For new Pontiac Safari Performance Engines and accessories, your online orders can be returned, in their original condition, within 45 days. For requirements, see the returns page.