1981 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engines

Keep Your 1981 Chevrolet Citation 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 Chevrolet Citation looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats, Performance Engine Valve Cover Gasket Sets, 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 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engine at Advance Auto Parts is around $207.27, with a range that starts at $8.99 and goes up to $899.99. With 30 options in stock from 5 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like High Performance Thermostat, Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 2 Piece Set, and ENGINE ROCKER ARM start at just $31.99 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 Distributors and Performance Oil Filters. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re here to help you keep your 1981 Chevrolet Citation in peak condition, inside and out.

Find Your Specific 1981 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engines

Looking for the perfect Performance Engine for your 1981 Chevrolet Citation? You’re in the right place. Below, you’ll find links to various types of Performance Engines that fit your vehicle. At Advance Auto Parts, we offer only the highest quality OEM and aftermarket Performance Engines, ensuring durability and a precise fit for your Chevrolet Citation. Whether you’re driving a 1981 model or another popular model year like 1980, 1982, and 1983, we’ve got you covered. Purchasing Performance Engines from Advance Auto Parts is a smart choice, giving you access to trusted brands and parts built to perform. Below, you’ll find links to various types of Performance Engines that fit your vehicle.

Essential 1981 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engines

Mr. Gasket – High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow (Part No.4364)

High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow

from

$29.99
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.

Product Features:
  • Opens At 180 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully Opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of Engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
See More

(20 reviews)
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Mr. Gasket – High Performance Thermostat (Part No.4365)

High Performance Thermostat

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.

Product Features:
  • Opens At 195 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully Opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of Engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
See More
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FEL-PRO Performance – Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 2 Piece Set (Part No.1270)

Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 2 Piece Set

from

$34.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fel-Pro performance intake manifold gaskets have been tested with virtually all aftermarket cylinder head and intake manifold combinations.
  • No exhaust crossover openings or blocking shields
  • Embossed steel core laminate w/coating
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More
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Edelbrock – Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Chevy 2.8L 90 Deg V6 (Part No.3790)

Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Chevy 2.8L 90 Deg V6

from

$297.99


Product Features:
  • Designed for Optimum Torque and Acceleration
  • Maximum Performance From Idle through Mid-Range
  • Matched to Edelbrock Performer Intakes
  • Includes Hydraulic Lifters and Assembly Lube
  • Major Improvement in Throttle Response and Torque
  • Use For Daily Drivers/Trucks/Vans/RVs/4x4s
  • Take The Guesswork Out Of Camshaft Selection
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1624)

Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

from

$24.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Blue Stripe performance cork-rubber gaskets use cork particles evenly distributed throughout a rubber binder resulting in a compressible gasket without leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More
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B & M – Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3000 (Part No.20481)

Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3000

from

$899.99
Nitrous Holeshot Converters are Built with the same features as the other B&M Holeshots, with the addition of anti-balloon plates. The anti-balloon plates will allow these converters to stand up to the instant horsepower nitrous delivers.

Product Features:
  • 2800-3200 RPM
  • Small And Big Blocks
  • Serious Performance
  • Furnace Brazed
  • Fully Balanced
See More
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B & M – Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3600 (Part No.20482)

Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3600

from

$749.99
Nitrous Holeshot Converters are Built with the same features as the other B&M Holeshots, with the addition of anti-balloon plates. The anti-balloon plates will allow these converters to stand up to the instant horsepower nitrous delivers.

Product Features:
  • 3400-3800 RPM
  • Small And Big Blocks
  • Serious Performance
  • Furnace Brazed
  • Fully Balanced
See More
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Most Popular Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats for 1981 Chevrolet Citations

Enhance your 1981 Chevrolet Citation with one of the 3 Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats we have in stock, starting at just $29.49.
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Mr. Gasket – High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow (Part No.4364)

High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow

from

$29.99
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.

Product Features:
  • Opens At 180 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully Opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of Engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
See More

(20 reviews)
View Product

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

High Performance Thermostat - 160 Degree Brass & Copper

from

$29.49
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.

Product Features:
  • Opens at 160 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
See More

(12 reviews)
View Product

Mr. Gasket – High Performance Thermostat (Part No.4365)

High Performance Thermostat

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.

Product Features:
  • Opens At 195 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully Opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of Engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
See More
View Product

Best-Selling 1981 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

Upgrade your Citation with our best-selling Performance Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set.
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1624)

Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

from

$24.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Blue Stripe performance cork-rubber gaskets use cork particles evenly distributed throughout a rubber binder resulting in a compressible gasket without leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More
View Product

Top-Quality Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets for 1981 Chevrolet Citations

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gasket for Chevrolet Citations and enjoy top-notch performance from $34.99.
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FEL-PRO Performance – Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 2 Piece Set (Part No.1270)

Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 2 Piece Set

from

$34.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fel-Pro performance intake manifold gaskets have been tested with virtually all aftermarket cylinder head and intake manifold combinations.
  • No exhaust crossover openings or blocking shields
  • Embossed steel core laminate w/coating
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More
View Product

Our Top Pick for a 1981 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engine Valve Stem Seal Set

Invest in a durable Performance Engine Valve Stem Seal Set for your 1981 Chevrolet, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.
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Competition Cams – Lifter Bore Grooving Kit with .842" and .875" Tools (Part No.5011)

Lifter Bore Grooving Kit with .842" and .875" Tools

from

$445.99
Lifter Bore Grooving Kit with .842" and .875" Tools
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Performance Engine Rocker Arms for 1981 Chevrolet Citations

Make a smart move for your 1981 Chevrolet Citation with products all priced from $17.99 to $206.99.
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Competition Cams – ENGINE ROCKER ARM (Part No.1413-12)

ENGINE ROCKER ARM

from

$206.99
ENGINE ROCKER ARM
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Competition Cams – ENGINE ROCKER ARM (Part No.1216-12)

ENGINE ROCKER ARM

from

$132.99
ENGINE ROCKER ARM
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Competition Cams – HI-ENERGY ROCKER ARM (Part No.1261-8)

HI-ENERGY ROCKER ARM

from

$75.99
HI-ENERGY ROCKER ARM
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Competition Cams – ENGINE ROCKER ARM (Part No.1413-1)

ENGINE ROCKER ARM

from

$31.99
ENGINE ROCKER ARM
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Competition Cams – ENGINE ROCKER ARM (Part No.1216-1)

ENGINE ROCKER ARM

from

$19.29
ENGINE ROCKER ARM
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Competition Cams – ENGINE ROCKER ARM (Part No.1261-1)

ENGINE ROCKER ARM

from

$17.99
ENGINE ROCKER ARM
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FAQs for 1981 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engines

What are the best-selling Performance Engines for 1981 Chevrolet Citations?

Out of 30 Performance Engines that fit 1981 Chevrolet Citations, the following parts are the top sellers:

What’s the price range for 1981 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engines?

The prices of Performance Engines for the 1981 Chevrolet Citation range from $8.99 up to $899.99 for the most premium parts.

What is the average price of a Performance Engine for a 1981 Chevrolet Citation?

The average price for Performance Engines for the 1981 Chevrolet Citation is $207.27. 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 Chevrolet Citation model years?

Yes, we carry Performance Engines for 2 model years of Chevrolet Citations between 1980 and 1983. The following model years are the most popular for Performance Engine purchases: 1983, 1982, and 1980.

What are the cheapest Performance Engines for my 1981 Chevrolet Citation?

The cheapest 1981 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engines we carry are:

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

Yes. We stock Performance Engines for 22 other popular 1981 Chevrolet models. Some of the most popular are 1981 Impala Performance Engines, 1981 Malibu Performance Engines, 1981 Camaro Performance Engines, 1981 Monte Carlo Performance Engines, and 1981 Corvette Performance Engines.

What types of Performance Engines do you sell for my 1981 Chevrolet Citation?

As of 11/2/25, these are some of the most in-demand types of Performance Engines for a 1981 Chevrolet Citation:

Can I get help with 1981 Chevrolet Citation Performance Engine orders?

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

What is your return policy for Chevrolet Citation Performance Engines?

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

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