1981 Mercury Capri Performance Engines

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Keep Your 1981 Mercury Capri 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 Mercury Capri looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Performance Engine Timing Sets and Components, Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets, and Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats. 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 Mercury Capri Performance Engine at Advance Auto Parts is around $483.29, with a range that starts at $31.99 and goes up to $727.99. With 10 options in stock from 5 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7820, "Competition Cams High Energy 6.881"" Long, 5/16"" Diameter Pushrod – Set of 16, 7831-16", and FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1035 start at just $66.99 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 Ignition Products. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re here to help you keep your 1981 Mercury Capri in peak condition, inside and out.

Essential 1981 Mercury Capri Performance Engines

Competition Cams – "Competition Cams High Energy 6.248"" Long, 5/16"" Diameter Pushrod Set, 7826-16" (Part No.7826-16)

"Competition Cams High Energy 6.248"" Long, 5/16"" Diameter Pushrod Set, 7826-16"

from

$49.99
“Competition Cams High Energy 6.248″” Long, 5/16″” Diameter Pushrod Set, 7826-16. ”
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Competition Cams – "Competition Cams High Energy 6.881"" Long, 5/16"" Diameter Pushrod – Set of 16, 7831-16" (Part No.7831-16)

"Competition Cams High Energy 6.881"" Long, 5/16"" Diameter Pushrod - Set of 16, 7831-16"

from

$66.99
High Energy Pushrods from COMP Cams are an affordable, high quality solution when building street rods, RVs and daily drivers. High Energy Pushrods have a durable one-piece construction that meets or exceeds all OE pushrod specifications and fit perfectly with High Energy and Magnum Rocker Arms.
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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Pushrod Set, 9655 (Part No.9655)

Edelbrock Pushrod Set, 9655

from

$230.99
“Edelbrock part No: 9655 Pushrods are designed for small-block Ford 289-302 V-8 engine applications. These one-piece pushrods are manufactured from high quality 4130 Chromoly steel tubing that has been surface hardened for maximum durability. They have precise formed wedged ends for a high quality fit with the cup seats. A black oxide finish is added for corrosion resistance. Pushrod Specifications: – For hydraulic rollers, 5.0L with stud mount. Refer to lifter kit No: 97453 – Outside Diameter: 5/16″” – Length: 6.400″””
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance Steel core laminate Engine Cylinder Head Gasket, 1011-1 (Part No.1011-1)

FEL-PRO Performance Steel core laminate Engine Cylinder Head Gasket, 1011-1

from

$52.99
Fel-Pro gaskets are specifically designed for the repair environment to deliver a reliable seal on even the most troublesome applications. Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces and manufactured with proprietary materials, you can count on Fel-Pro for innovative sealing solutions for the real-world repair environment.
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Mr. Gasket – Mr. Gasket Ultra Seal: Head Gasket, 5807G (Part No.5807G)

Mr. Gasket Ultra Seal: Head Gasket, 5807G

from

$92.99
Mr. Gasket Ultra-Seal Head Gaskets are a five layer (graphite core/perforated steel outer layers) composite construction. The graphite core has excellent thermoconductivity (transfers heat) away from hot spots in head preventing gasket burn-out. They provide excellent stability, compressibility and high temperature endurance. A high temperature silicone coating ensures sealing of engine fluids. Compatible with cast iron or aluminum heads, they will not brinell (indent) aluminum cylinder heads. Suitable for high performance street, drag race and oval track use. Sold individually.brbrGasket Bore 4.100 inch, Compressed thickness 0.038 inch.
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Mr. Gasket – Mr. Gasket Mls Head Gasket, 3175G (Part No.3175G)

Mr. Gasket Mls Head Gasket, 3175G

from

$134.99
Our unique Multi-Layered steel head gasket embossment formation process optimizes the embossment radius, reduces stress points, enhances gasket conformability, and provides uniform clamp load distribution. This all results in superior surface contact between block and cylinder head. All head gasket layers/spacers go through an additional process to significantly reduce forming induced stress. Advantages are reduced brittleness in material, increased flexibility and deformation retention. This stabilizes the gasket, resulting in reduced cylinder bore distortion and improved combustion seal fro the extreme cylinder pressures found in high compression, supercharged and turbocharged applications. A proprietary polymer coating ensures the micro-seal of engine coolant and oil fluids.brbrA typical MLS head gasket requires a smoother (30Ra) surface finish than composite head gaskets. Mr. Gasket’s proprietary polymer coating will seal a surface finish twice as rough (60Ra) as a typical MLS head gasket. For high performance street, drag race and oval track use. Mr. Gasket provides a Limited Lifetime Warranty for MLS cylinder head gaskets.
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FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance Steel core laminate Engine Cylinder Head Gasket, 1011-2 (Part No.1011-2)

FEL-PRO Performance Steel core laminate Engine Cylinder Head Gasket, 1011-2

from

$52.99
Fel-Pro gaskets are specifically designed for the repair environment to deliver a reliable seal on even the most troublesome applications. Designed for imperfect sealing surfaces and manufactured with proprietary materials, you can count on Fel-Pro for innovative sealing solutions for the real-world repair environment.
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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Ford, 7341 (Part No.7341)

Edelbrock Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Ford, 7341

from

$130.99
“Edelbrock part No. 7341 head gasket is intended for Ford 302 E-Boss and 351w E-Boss (Clevor) conversions using Edelbrock No. 61699 heads. This gasket comes as a set and has a 4.100″” bore size, .041″” compressed thickness and 9.2 cc volume.”
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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7814 (Part No.7814)

Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7814

from

$46.99
Edelbrock part No: 7814 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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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7820 (Part No.7820)

Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7820

from

$74.99
Edelbrock part No: 7820 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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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7811 (Part No.7811)

Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7811

from

$79.99
Edelbrock part No: 7811 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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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Keyway Adjustable Billet Timing Set For ’65-’88 Ford 289-351W, 7138 (Part No.7138)

Competition Cams Keyway Adjustable Billet Timing Set For '65-'88 Ford 289-351W, 7138

from

$679.99
Competition Cams Keyway Adjustable Billet Timing Set For ’65-’88 Ford 289-351W, 7138.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Magnum Double Row Timing Set for ’65-’88 Ford 255, 289, 302 and Boss 302, 2120 (Part No.2120)

Competition Cams Magnum Double Row Timing Set for '65-'88 Ford 255, 289, 302 and Boss 302, 2120

from

$123.99
Competition Cams Magnum Double Row Timing Set for ’65-’88 Ford 255, 289, 302 and Boss 302, 2120.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams High Energy Timing Set for ’60-’83 Ford 144-200 V6, 3223 (Part No.3223)

Competition Cams High Energy Timing Set for '60-'83 Ford 144-200 V6, 3223

from

$55.99
Competition Cams High Energy Timing Set for ’60-’83 Ford 144-200 V6, 3223.
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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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B & M – B & M Torque Converter, Tork Master 2400, 40438 (Part No.40438)

B & M Torque Converter, Tork Master 2400, 40438

from

$749.99
This B&M Tork Master 2400 fits 1980-92 Ford AOD transmissions with a 1.375-inch crank pilot and has a 11.4-inch bolt circle. 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.
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B & M – B & M Holeshot 2000, 50448 (Part No.50448)

B & M Holeshot 2000, 50448

from

$561.99
This Holeshot 2000 fits 1970-82 Ford C4 automatic transmissions with a 26-spline input shaft, 1.375-inch crank pilot and has a 10.5-inch bolt circle. Holeshot torque converters are for serious-minded performance enthusiasts and offer additional strength and durability features not found in our Traveler or Tork Master series of converters. The Holeshot 2400 converter is good 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.
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B & M – B & M Torque Converter, Tork Master 2400, 50441 (Part No.50441)

B & M Torque Converter, Tork Master 2400, 50441

from

$549.99
This B&M Tork Master 2400 fits 1970-82 Ford C4 transmissions with a 1.375-inch crank pilot, 26 spline input and has a 10.5-inch bolt circle. 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.
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B & M – B & M Torque Converter, Tork Master 3000, 50442 (Part No.50442)

B & M Torque Converter, Tork Master 3000, 50442

from

$727.99
This B&M Tork Master 3000 fits 1970-82 Ford C4 transmissions with 26 spline input, 1.375 inch crank pilot and has a 10.5-inch bolt circle. 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.
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B & M – B & M Torque Converter, C4 26 Spline 10.5 Bc, 50416 (Part No.50416)

B & M Torque Converter, C4 26 Spline 10.5 Bc, 50416

from

$675.99
B&M Holeshot 2400 for 1970-82 Ford C4 Automatic Transmissions Holeshot Torque Converter 2400 Stall with 26 spline input and 10.5-inch bolt circle. The Holeshot 2400 converter is good 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.
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Most Popular Performance Engine Timing Sets and Components for 1981 Mercury Capris

Enhance your 1981 Mercury Capri with one of the 2 Performance Engine Timing Sets and Components we have in stock, starting at just $55.99.

Competition Cams – Competition Cams Magnum Double Row Timing Set for ’65-’88 Ford 255, 289, 302 and Boss 302, 2120 (Part No.2120)

Competition Cams Magnum Double Row Timing Set for '65-'88 Ford 255, 289, 302 and Boss 302, 2120

from

$123.99
Competition Cams Magnum Double Row Timing Set for ’65-’88 Ford 255, 289, 302 and Boss 302, 2120.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams High Energy Timing Set for ’60-’83 Ford 144-200 V6, 3223 (Part No.3223)

Competition Cams High Energy Timing Set for '60-'83 Ford 144-200 V6, 3223

from

$55.99
Competition Cams High Energy Timing Set for ’60-’83 Ford 144-200 V6, 3223.
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Best-Selling 1981 Mercury Capri Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gasket

Upgrade your Capri with our best-selling Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gasket.

FEL-PRO Performance – FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1035 (Part No.1035)

FEL-PRO Performance Performance Cylinder Head Gasket, 1035

from

$82.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.
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Top-Quality Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats for 1981 Mercury Capris

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Performance Engine Coolant Thermostat for Mercury Capris and enjoy top-notch performance from $31.99.

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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Our Top Pick for a 1981 Mercury Capri Performance Timing Set

Invest in a durable Performance Timing Set for your 1981 Mercury, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.

Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7820 (Part No.7820)

Edelbrock Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set, 7820

from

$74.99
Edelbrock part No: 7820 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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Our Performance Engine Push Rods for 1981 Mercury Capris

Make a smart move for your 1981 Mercury Capri with our Performance Engine Push Rod for $66.99.

Competition Cams – "Competition Cams High Energy 6.881"" Long, 5/16"" Diameter Pushrod – Set of 16, 7831-16" (Part No.7831-16)

"Competition Cams High Energy 6.881"" Long, 5/16"" Diameter Pushrod - Set of 16, 7831-16"

from

$66.99
High Energy Pushrods from COMP Cams are an affordable, high quality solution when building street rods, RVs and daily drivers. High Energy Pushrods have a durable one-piece construction that meets or exceeds all OE pushrod specifications and fit perfectly with High Energy and Magnum Rocker Arms.
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FAQs for 1981 Mercury Capri Performance Engines

What are the best-selling Performance Engines for 1981 Mercury Capris?

Out of 10 Performance Engines that fit 1981 Mercury Capris, the following parts are the top sellers:

What’s the price range for 1981 Mercury Capri Performance Engines?

The prices of Performance Engines for the 1981 Mercury Capri range from $31.99 up to $727.99 for the most premium parts.

What is the average price of a Performance Engine for a 1981 Mercury Capri?

The average price for Performance Engines for the 1981 Mercury Capri is $483.29. 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 Mercury Capri model years?

Yes, we carry Performance Engines for 15 model years of Mercury Capris between 1966 and 1986. The following model years are the most popular for Performance Engine purchases: 1986, 1985, 1984, 1983, 1982, 1980, 1979, 1977, and 1976.

What are the cheapest Performance Engines for my 1981 Mercury Capri?

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

Yes. We stock Performance Engines for 3 other popular 1981 Mercury models. Some of the most popular are 1981 Cougar Performance Engines, 1981 Grand Marquis Performance Engines, 1981 Zephyr Performance Engines, and 1981 Marquis Performance Engines.

What types of Performance Engines do you sell for my 1981 Mercury Capri?

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

Can I get help with 1981 Mercury Capri Performance Engine orders?

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

What is your return policy for Mercury Capri Performance Engines?

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