1981 Buick Riviera Performance Engines

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Keep Your 1981 Buick Riviera 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 1981 Buick Riviera looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Performance Timing Set, 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 1981 Buick Riviera Performance Engine at Advance Auto Parts is around $330.43, with a range that starts at $20.99 and goes up to $799.99. With 31 options in stock from 5 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like "Competition Cams Valve Seals, Umbrella 11/32"" 1 St, 502-16", Competition Cams Valve Seals, 503-16, and Edelbrock Performer Small Block Oldsmobile 350 Intake Manifold, 7111 start at just $20.99 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 Air Filters and Performance Fuel Systems. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re here to help you keep your 1981 Buick Riviera in peak condition, inside and out.

Essential 1981 Buick Riviera Performance Engines

Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer Small Block Oldsmobile 350 Intake Manifold, 7111 (Part No.7111)

Edelbrock Performer Small Block Oldsmobile 350 Intake Manifold, 7111

from

$481.99
Edelbrock Performer Small Block Oldsmobile 350 Intake Manifold, 7111.
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Edelbrock – Edelbrock RPM Air-Gap Oldsmobile 455 Intake Manifold, 7551 (Part No.7551)

Edelbrock RPM Air-Gap Oldsmobile 455 Intake Manifold, 7551

from

$644.99
Edelbrock RPM Air-Gap Oldsmobile 455 Intake Manifold, 7551.
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1125 (Part No.1125)

FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1125

from

$109.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1000 (Part No.1000)

FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1000

from

$61.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Magnum 253/253 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 42-237-4 (Part No.42-237-4)

Competition Cams Magnum 253/253 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 42-237-4

from

$309.99
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 226/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 42-600-5 (Part No.42-600-5)

Competition Cams Thumpr 226/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 42-600-5

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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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit, 7112 (Part No.7112)

Edelbrock Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit, 7112

from

$461.99
“Edelbrock part No: 7112 Performer RPM Camshaft is designed for small-block Oldsmobile 350-403 V-8 applications. This Edelbrock cam kit produced 397 HP & 400 ft-lbs. of torque when used with No: 7111 intake and stock iron cylinder heads on a 350 engine. The camshaft works well with high-performance’s street applications, Performer RPM cams provide power from 1500 to 6500 rpm. This hydraulic lifter camshaft is dyno-matched to Performer RPM manifolds for high-rpm horsepower while still maintaining acceptable low-end torque. With 10 to 12 inches of manifold vacuum at idle, Performer RPM cams have more lift and duration than most street camshafts. Hydraulic flat tappet lifters are included with each Performer RPM camshaft. Camshaft Specifications: – Duration at .050 Intake: 224 degrees – Duration at .050 Exhaust: 234 degrees – Lift at Valve Intake: .496″” – Lift at Valve Exhaust: .520″” – Lobe Separation: 112 Degrees – Intake Centerline: 107 Degrees – Idle Vacuum at 1000 RPM’s: 12″””
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 218/224 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit, K42-222-4 (Part No.K42-222-4)

Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 218/224 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit, K42-222-4

from

$597.99
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 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 Cam & Lifter Kit, Oldsmobile V8 280 Magnum Hydraulic 1 Ea, CL42-231-4 (Part No.CL42-231-4)

Competition Cams Cam & Lifter Kit, Oldsmobile V8 280 Magnum Hydraulic 1 Ea, CL42-231-4

from

$397.99
Competition Cams Cam & Lifter Kit, Oldsmobile V8 280 Magnum Hydraulic 1 Ea, CL42-231-4.
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Competition Cams – "Competition Cams Valve Seals, Umbrella 11/32"" 1 St, 502-16" (Part No.502-16)

"Competition Cams Valve Seals, Umbrella 11/32"" 1 St, 502-16"

from

$20.99
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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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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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET SET, 1200 (Part No.1200)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET SET, 1200

from

$32.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET SET, 1357 (Part No.1357)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET SET, 1357

from

$44.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions
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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7829 (Part No.7829)

Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7829

from

$96.99
Edelbrock part No: 7829 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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B & M – B & M Performance Torque Converter For Gm Th400, 350, & 375 Transmissions, 20400 (Part No.20400)

B & M Performance Torque Converter For Gm Th400, 350, & 375 Transmissions, 20400

from

$349.99
Torque Converter – Tork Master 2000 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) APPLICATION: Tork Master 2000 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) The Tork Master is B&M’s lowest cost performance torque converter. The Tork Master is an excellent all-around performance street converter. The best value priced street converters available, Tork Master converters come with a new precision pump drive tube and all are pressure tested and fully balanced. The Tork Master torque converter is not recommended for big block or supercharged applications. New alloy steel pump drive tube. Needle thrust bearing when factory equipped. New thrust washer between turbine and cover when required. Due to torque converter core availability, the actual converter size may vary but performance functionality will be as advertised.
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B & M – B & M Tork Master 2400, 20404 (Part No.20404)

B & M Tork Master 2400, 20404

from

$399.99
The Tork Master 2400 fits 1965-91 GM TH400, 425, 375 and 1968-81 GM TH350, 375B (not 350C.) Don’t let the exceptional value fool you into thinking Tork Master Converters are not packed with lots of quality features, making them the best value-priced street performance converters money can buy. These converters perform best when paired with stock to modified engines up to 350hp/350 ft lbs of torque, and lighter weight applications, like street rods. The Tork Master will provide noticeably quicker launches and harder acceleration while maintaining normal daily driving qualities. Upgrades like a new precision alloy steel pump drive tube, needle thrust bearing when factory equipped, new thrust washer between turbine and cover when required, and pressure tested and fully balanced by expertly trained technicians. Notes: Higher stall converters can generate more heat, so we highly recommend adding a transmission cooler. Not recommended for big block, supercharged, plate-type nitrous oxide or trans-brake applications. The product images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product. 10.75-inch bolt circle
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B & M – B & M Holeshot 3000, 20413 (Part No.20413)

B & M Holeshot 3000, 20413

from

$921.99
This Holeshot 3000 fits 1965-91 GM TH400, 425, 375 and 1968-81 TH350, 375B (not 350C). Holeshot torque converters are for serious-minded performance enthusiasts and offer additional strength and durability features not found in our Tork Master or Traveler series of converters. The Holeshot 3000 converter is an excellent choice for vehicles with some performance engine modifications, particularly big cams that tend to reduce low-end power and torque. The higher stall speed of this converter will launch the car in a higher rpm range where more torque is readily available, resulting in quicker acceleration. Holeshot converters feature furnace brazed impeller fins and turbine, new precision alloy impeller hub and new heavy duty needle bearings. Other features include fully balanced and pressure tested by expert technicians. If your vehicle is equipped with a plate type nitrous system or supercharger, please refer to the Nitrous Holeshot line of converters. Notes: Stall speed listings are based on engines producing 230lb. ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm. More torque at 2,500 rpm will give you more stall speed, less torque at 2,500 rpm will give you less stall speed than the stall speed ratings indicated. Higher stall converters can generate more heat, so we highly recommend adding a transmission cooler. This converter is Not recommended for supercharged, plate-type nitrous oxide or trans-brake applications. The product images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product. Has both 10.75 and 11.50-inch bolt circles.
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B & M – B & M Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3600, 20482 (Part No.20482)

B & M Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3600, 20482

from

$799.99
B&M Nitrous HoleShot 3600 stall for 1965-91 TH400, 425 and 1968-81 TH350, 375 (Not TH350C) transmissions is an excellent choice for vehicles with engine modifications, particularly big cams that tend to reduce low end power and torque. The higher stall speed of this converter will launch the car in a higher rpm range where more torque is readily available, resulting in quicker acceleration. Nitrous Holeshot converters feature furnace brazed impeller and turbine, new precision steel alloy pump drive tube, new heavy duty needle bearings between the stator and impeller (not a thrust washer) and needle bearings between the stator and turbine. Other features include dual pattern 10.75 and 11.50-inch bolt circle, a new turbine hub, new springs and rollers in the stator and anti-balloon plates. The anti-balloon plates will allow these converters to stand up to the instant horsepower that a nitrous plate system delivers. Stall speed listings are based on engines producing 230lb. ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm. More torque at 2,500 rpm will give you more stall speed, less torque at 2,500 rpm will give you less stall speed than the stall speed ratings indicated. These are serious converters for serious performance street cars. To prevent contamination left from worn parts being circulated in your new components causing premature wear, we strongly recommend protecting your investment by adding a B&M transmission cooler with all new transmission installations. Listed converters are NOT to be used in trans-brake applications. Not for use in trans-brake applications.
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Competition Cams – "Competition Cams Magnum 8.280"" Long, .080"" Wall, 3/8"" Diameter Pushrod Set of 8, 7131-8" (Part No.7131-8)

"Competition Cams Magnum 8.280"" Long, .080"" Wall, 3/8"" Diameter Pushrod Set of 8, 7131-8"

from

$80.99
“Competition Cams Magnum 8.280″” Long, .080″” Wall, 3/8″” Diameter Pushrod Set of 8, 7131-8. ”
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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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Most Popular Performance Timing Set for 1981 Buick Rivieras

Enhance your 1981 Buick Riviera with this popular Performance Timing Set we have in stock, for $96.99.

Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7829 (Part No.7829)

Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7829

from

$96.99
Edelbrock part No: 7829 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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Best-Selling 1981 Buick Riviera Performance Engine Coolant Thermostat

Upgrade your Riviera 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 1981 Buick Rivieras

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gasket for Buick Rivieras and enjoy top-notch performance from $32.99.

FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET SET, 1200 (Part No.1200)

FEL-PRO Performance PERFORMANCE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET SET, 1200

from

$32.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions
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Our Top Pick for a 1981 Buick Riviera Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gasket

Invest in a durable Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gasket for your 1981 Buick, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.

FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1000 (Part No.1000)

FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1000

from

$61.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.
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Our Performance Intake Manifolds for 1981 Buick Rivieras

Make a smart move for your 1981 Buick Riviera with our Performance Intake Manifold for $481.99.

Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer Small Block Oldsmobile 350 Intake Manifold, 7111 (Part No.7111)

Edelbrock Performer Small Block Oldsmobile 350 Intake Manifold, 7111

from

$481.99
Edelbrock Performer Small Block Oldsmobile 350 Intake Manifold, 7111.
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FAQs for 1981 Buick Riviera Performance Engines

What are the best-selling Performance Engines for 1981 Buick Rivieras?

Out of 31 Performance Engines that fit 1981 Buick Rivieras, the following parts are the top sellers:

What’s the price range for 1981 Buick Riviera Performance Engines?

The prices of Performance Engines for the 1981 Buick Riviera range from $20.99 up to $799.99 for the most premium parts.

What is the average price of a Performance Engine for a 1981 Buick Riviera?

The average price for Performance Engines for the 1981 Buick Riviera is $330.43. 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 Buick Riviera model years?

Yes, we carry Performance Engines for 33 model years of Buick Rivieras between 1964 and 1999. The following model years are the most popular for Performance Engine purchases: 1999, 1998, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1993, 1992, 1991, and 1990.

What are the cheapest Performance Engines for my 1981 Buick Riviera?

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Performance Engines for any other 1981 Buick models?

Yes. We stock Performance Engines for 5 other popular 1981 Buick models. Some of the most popular are 1981 Regal Performance Engines, 1981 Century Performance Engines, 1981 LeSabre Performance Engines, 1981 Skylark Performance Engines, and 1981 Electra Performance Engines.

What types of Performance Engines do you sell for my 1981 Buick Riviera?

As of 8/2/26, these are some of the most in-demand types of Performance Engines for a 1981 Buick Riviera:

Can I get help with 1981 Buick Riviera Performance Engine orders?

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

What is your return policy for Buick Riviera Performance Engines?

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