1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engines

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Keep Your 1981 Pontiac Catalina 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 Pontiac Catalina looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets, Performance Intake Manifolds, 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 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engine at Advance Auto Parts is around $332.73, with a range that starts at $20.99 and goes up to $799.99. With 36 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 Distributors and Performance Fuel Systems. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re here to help you keep your 1981 Pontiac Catalina in peak condition, inside and out.

Essential 1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engines

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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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 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 Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit, K12-600-4 (Part No.K12-600-4)

Competition Cams Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit, K12-600-4

from

$655.99
SMALL BLOCK CHEVY HYDRAULIC COMPLETE KIT – Thumpr : High performance street, stock converter ok, best with 2000+ converter and gears. Choppy/thumping idle.
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Mr. Gasket – Mr. Gasket Ultra Seal: Head Gasket, 5801G (Part No.5801G)

Mr. Gasket Ultra Seal: Head Gasket, 5801G

from

$79.09
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 4.190 inch, Compressed thickness 0.038 inch.
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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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Competition Cams – Competition Cams High Energy 206/206 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 51-229-3 (Part No.51-229-3)

Competition Cams High Energy 206/206 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 51-229-3

from

$297.99
Ideal for use with mainly stock components like rocker arms, intake manifolds, cylinder heads, compression ratio, torque converters and rear gear ratios, the High Energy camshaft grind family is a great choice for street performance applications.
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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Mutha’ Thumpr 234/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 42-601-5 (Part No.42-601-5)

Competition Cams Mutha' Thumpr 234/249 Hydraulic Flat Cam, 42-601-5

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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Mr. Gasket – Mr. Gasket Ultra Seal: Competition Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs, 1075 (Part No.1075)

Mr. Gasket Ultra Seal: Competition Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs, 1075

from

$113.99
Mr. Gasket competition screw-in rocker arm studs are manufactured from heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 steel. Ideal for high performance street and race applications.
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Competition Cams – "Competition Cams Ultra Pro Magnum Rocker Arm Set with 1.6 Ratio for Chevrolet SBC with 7/16"" Stud, 1605-16" (Part No.1605-16)

"Competition Cams Ultra Pro Magnum Rocker Arm Set with 1.6 Ratio for Chevrolet SBC with 7/16"" Stud, 1605-16"

from

$523.99
“Competition Cams Ultra Pro Magnum Rocker Arm Set with 1.6 Ratio for Chevrolet SBC with 7/16″” Stud, 1605-16. ”
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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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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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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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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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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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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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Competition Cams – Competition Cams Magnum 252/252 Hydraulic Roller Cam and Lifter Kit, CL12-470-8 (Part No.CL12-470-8)

Competition Cams Magnum 252/252 Hydraulic Roller Cam and Lifter Kit, CL12-470-8

from

$1210.99
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 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 Xtreme Energy 218/224 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL42-222-4 (Part No.CL42-222-4)

Competition Cams Xtreme Energy 218/224 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit, CL42-222-4

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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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer Intake Manifold for 1965-79 Pontiac 326-455 Non-EGR, Polished Finish, 21561 (Part No.21561)

Edelbrock Performer Intake Manifold for 1965-79 Pontiac 326-455 Non-EGR, Polished Finish, 21561

from

$754.99
Edelbrock Performer Intake Manifold for 1965-79 Pontiac 326-455 Non-EGR, Polished Finish, 21561.
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Edelbrock – Edelbrock Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy, Polished Finish, 27011 (Part No.27011)

Edelbrock Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy, Polished Finish, 27011

from

$552.99
Edelbrock Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy, Polished Finish, 27011.
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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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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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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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Most Popular Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gasket for 1981 Pontiac Catalinas

Enhance your 1981 Pontiac Catalina with this popular Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gasket we have in stock, for $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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Best-Selling 1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Intake Manifold

Upgrade your Catalina with our best-selling Performance Intake Manifold.

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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Top-Quality Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats for 1981 Pontiac Catalinas

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Performance Engine Coolant Thermostat for Pontiac Catalinas 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 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gasket

Invest in a durable Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gasket for your 1981 Pontiac, 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 Timing Set for 1981 Pontiac Catalinas

Make a smart move for your 1981 Pontiac Catalina with our Performance Timing Set 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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FAQs for 1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engines

What are the best-selling Performance Engines for 1981 Pontiac Catalinas?

Out of 36 Performance Engines that fit 1981 Pontiac Catalinas, the following parts are the top sellers:

What’s the price range for 1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engines?

The prices of Performance Engines for the 1981 Pontiac Catalina 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 Pontiac Catalina?

The average price for Performance Engines for the 1981 Pontiac Catalina is $332.73. 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 Catalina model years?

Yes, we carry Performance Engines for 25 model years of Pontiac Catalinas between 1955 and 1980. The following model years are the most popular for Performance Engine purchases: 1980, 1979, 1978, 1977, 1976, 1975, 1974, 1973, and 1972.

What are the cheapest Performance Engines for my 1981 Pontiac Catalina?

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

Yes. We stock Performance Engines for 5 other popular 1981 Pontiac models. Some of the most popular are 1981 Grand Prix Performance Engines, 1981 Bonneville Performance Engines, 1981 Firebird Performance Engines, 1981 LeMans Performance Engines, and 1981 Phoenix Performance Engines.

What types of Performance Engines do you sell for my 1981 Pontiac Catalina?

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

Can I get help with 1981 Pontiac Catalina 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 Catalina Performance Engines?

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