1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engines

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 Water Outlets, Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets, and Performance Intake Manifolds. 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.

Top-Rated Performance Engines from Trusted Brands

Looking for a reliable Performance Engine? We’ve got you covered with options from brands you know and trust like Edelbrock. For example, Edelbrock Performance Engines start at just $487.99 with an average 4.4 star rating. With over 132 reviews and a solid 4 star average, you can shop with confidence knowing other Pontiac Catalina owners approve.

Explore Related Parts

While you’re upgrading or replacing your Performance Engine, don’t forget to check out other key components like Performance Fuel Systems and Performance Oil Filters. 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 – Ultra Pro Magnum Rocker Arm Set with 1.6 Ratio for Chevrolet SBC with 7/16" Stud (Part No.1605-16)

Ultra Pro Magnum Rocker Arm Set with 1.6 Ratio for Chevrolet SBC with 7/16" Stud

from

$476.99
Ultra Pro Magnum Rocker Arm Set with 1.6 Ratio for Chevrolet SBC with 7/16" Stud

Spectre – Water Neck; Olds (Part No.4733)

Water Neck; Olds

from

$26.99
Spectre’s Oldsmobile V8 water neck fits Oldsmobile 330, 350, 425 and 455 engines. This water neck has been designed around the OEM specifications and has a chrome plated finish for a lasting look that fits great. This water neck has an additional by-pass hose connection and includes the bolts.

Product Features:
  • Fits Oldsmobile 330, 350, 425 and 455 engines
  • Chrome plated
  • Bolts included
  • Designed for OEM fit
  • Easy to install
  • O-ring/gasket not included
See More

Competition Cams – Set of 16 O-Ring Valve Seals for Stock Guide Size, 11/32" Valve Stem (Part No.501-16)

Set of 16 O-Ring Valve Seals for Stock Guide Size, 11/32" Valve Stem

from

$223.99
VALVE SEALS, O-RING 11/32″ 1 ST
See More

Competition Cams – VALVE SEALS, TEFLON 3/8" 1 ST (Part No.505-16)

VALVE SEALS, TEFLON 3/8" 1 ST

from

$33.99
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.

Product Features:
  • Work with .530″ guides and 3/8″ valve stem diameter
  • Valve stem oil seals keep unwanted oil from entering the combustion chamber
  • Several different types of valve seals are offered
See More

Edelbrock – Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16) (Part No.9724)

Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16)

from

$106.99
Product Features:
  • Use W/ Valve Springs Part #5822, 5882, 5896, 5872, 5867, 5812, 5857
  • Set of 16
  • 1.50 in. Outside Diameter
  • Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
See More

Mr. Gasket – Intake Gasket (Part No.502G)

Intake Gasket

from

$34.99
Mr. Gasket Performance Intake Gaskets are manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. They provide excellent sealing and durability. Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications. Complete with manifold end seals and distributor gasket (where applicable). For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications
  • Complete with manifold end seals and distributor gasket where applicable
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
See More

FEL-PRO Performance – Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set (Part No.1200)

Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set

from

$32.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • DESIGNED FOR IMPERFECT SEALING SURFACES — Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment to help seal imperfect sealing surfaces
  • SEALING TECHNOLOGIES — Exclusive sealing innovations and technologies with proprietary materials and unique design features to ensure a superior seal for your repair
  • ENGINEERING EXPERTISE — Parts are designed, reviewed, validated and approved by Fel-Pro engineers through rigorous research and development
  • REAL-WORLD TESTED — Parts are tested on-vehicle and validated to ensure optimal performance on the road
  • EVERY PART FOR THE REPAIR — Fel-Pro gasket sets include every part needed for the repair unless otherwise noted
See More

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

Performer Small Block Oldsmobile 350 Intake Manifold

from

$481.99


Product Features:
  • Best for the Ultimate in Street High-Performance
  • Designed Idle to 5500 RPM Street-Driven Power
  • Dual-Plane High-Rise Intake w/180 deg Firing Order
  • Produces Incredible Top-End Horsepower
  • Retains Good Throttle Response and Acceleration
  • Larger Plenum and Runners Maximizes Other Upgrades
  • Edelbrock Total Power Package Maximizes Gains
See More

Edelbrock – Performer RPM AIR-Gap Small Block Chevy Black Intake Manifold (Part No.75013)

Performer RPM AIR-Gap Small Block Chevy Black Intake Manifold

from

$552.99
Edelbrock part #75013 RPM Air-Gap RPM intake manifold is designed for 1955-86 262-400 c.i.d. Chevrolet V8’s. The award-winning RPM Air-Gap intake manifold incorporates the same race-winning technology that’s used on our Victor Series competition intakes.

Product Features:
  • 1500-6500 RPM Range
  • Dual Plane Type-4150 Style Flange
  • 4.2 in. Front Height, 4.72 in. Center Height, 5.25 in. Rear Height
  • Black Powder Coated Finish
  • Non-EGR
See More

B & M – Holeshot 2400 (Part No.20412)

Holeshot 2400

from

$549.99
HoleShot 2400 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) Application: HoleShot 2400 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) A higher than stock stall speed as delivered by the Holeshot c

Product Features:
  • Furnace Brazed Impeller
  • Steel Alloy Pump Drive Tube
  • Heavy Duty Needle Bearing
  • Between Stator and Turbine
  • Furnace Brazed Turbine
See More

B & M – Performance Torque Converter for GM TH400, 350, & 375 Transmissions (Part No.20400)

Performance Torque Converter for GM TH400, 350, & 375 Transmissions

from

$329.99
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

Product Features:
  • New Precision Pump Drive Tube
  • Pressure Tested
  • Fully Balanced
  • Needle Thrust Bearing
  • New Thrust Washer
See More

B & M – Traveler Converter (Part No.30423)

Traveler Converter

from

$475.99
Torque Converter – Traveler Converter (SUV and Light Truck) for GM 1968 to 1981 TH350, TH375B APPLICATION: GM 1968 to 1981 TH350, TH375B (6) (will not fit TH-350C) Provides slightly higher stall speed than stock to improve pulling power at low speeds. New

Product Features:
  • Ideal For Motor Homes
  • Ideal For Towing Applications
  • Precision Pump Drive Tube
  • Heavy Duty Needle Bearings
  • Furnace Brazed
See More

Competition Cams – VALVE SPRINGS, 1.437" SINGLE 1 ST (Part No.942-16)

VALVE SPRINGS, 1.437" SINGLE 1 ST

from

$257.99
Single Outer Valve Springs from COMP Cams allow you to build the perfect spring assembly for your application. The valve spring creation process is far more involved than most people realize. Selecting the right metal stock and creating the best design is not done by chance. COMP Cams has developed a process that creates the highest quality valve spring available. The result is a product that meets and exceeds the expectations of today’s engine builders and racers.

Product Features:
  • Seat pressure: 115 lbs. @ 1.700″, Open Pressure: 284 lbs. @ 1.200″
  • O.D.: 1.437″, I.D.: 1.039″
  • Single valve springs with damper
  • Approximately .510″ max lift at recommended installed height
See More

Edelbrock – Complete Sure Seat Valve Spring Kit for Chevy 262-400 V8 1957-95 (Part No.5894)

Complete Sure Seat Valve Spring Kit for Chevy 262-400 V8 1957-95

from

$155.99
Complete kit includes retainers and locks. Springs made of highest quality spring wire. Springs precision wound to close tolerances. Includes superior quality steel retainers. Includes 7 degree heat-treated valve stem locks. Retainers and locks are black oxide coated. Non-rotator style: Dyno tested and street proven. Great match to Edelbrock camshaft kit.

Product Features:
  • Complete Kit: Includes Retainers And Locks
  • Springs Made of Highest Quality Spring Wire
  • Springs Precision Wound To Close Tolerances
  • Includes Superior Quality Steel Retainers
  • Includes 7 deg. Heat-Treated Valve Stem Locks
  • Retainers and Locks Black Oxide Coated
  • Dyno Tested And Street Proven
  • Great Match to Edelbrock Camshaft Kit
See More

Edelbrock – Sure Seat Valve Springs for S/B Chevy O.E Cast iron Cylinder Heads (Part No.5703)

Sure Seat Valve Springs for S/B Chevy O.E Cast iron Cylinder Heads

from

$69.99
Springs made of highest quality spring wire. Springs precision wound to close tolerances. Non-Rotator style: Dyno tested and street proven. Great match to Edelbrock camshaft kit.

Product Features:
  • For Use With Cast Iron Heads
  • Springs Made of Highest Quality Spring Wire
  • Springs Precision Wound To Close Tolerances
  • Use with Original Equipment Heads Only
See More

Competition Cams – High Energy 206/206 Hydraulic Flat Cam (Part No.42-227-4)

High Energy 206/206 Hydraulic Flat Cam

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.

Product Features:
  • Good blend of efficiency and performance.
  • Perfect choice for performance street rebuilds.
  • Work well with mainly stock components such as rockers, manifolds, heads, compression, torque converters and gears.
See More

Competition Cams – High Energy 206/206 Hydraulic Flat Cam (Part No.51-229-3)

High Energy 206/206 Hydraulic Flat Cam

from

$287.99
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.

Product Features:
  • Good blend of efficiency and performance.
  • Perfect choice for performance street rebuilds.
  • Work well with mainly stock components such as rockers, manifolds, heads, compression, torque converters and gears.
See More

Competition Cams – Xtreme Energy 250/256 Hydraulic Flat Cam (Part No.42-226-4)

Xtreme Energy 250/256 Hydraulic Flat Cam

from

$297.99
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,

Product Features:
  • Excellent performance in street carbureted applications.
  • More vacuum allows an increase in duration for improved performance and assists power brakes.
  • Quicker opening lobe profiles deliver increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve.
  • Best performance with aftermarket intake manifolds, headers, lower gear ratios etc.
See More

Competition Cams – Big Mutha’ Thumpr 243/257 Hydraulic Roller Cam/Lifter Kit (Part No.CL12-602-8)

Big Mutha' Thumpr 243/257 Hydraulic Roller Cam/Lifter Kit

from

$1152.99
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.

Product Features:
  • Early intake valve opening and long exhaust duration create optimum overlap for powerful, hard-hitting exhaust note.
  • Best with aftermarket converters and more rear gear.
  • Three unique cam designs for each application that deliver excellent horsepower gains and broad torque curve; perfect choice for muscle cars and street rods.
See More

Competition Cams – Xtreme Energy 240/246 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit (Part No.CL51-225-4)

Xtreme Energy 240/246 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit

from

$416.99
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.

Product Features:
  • Excellent performance in street carbureted applications.
  • More vacuum allows an increase in duration for improved performance and assists power brakes.
  • Quicker opening lobe profiles deliver increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve.
  • Best performance with aftermarket intake manifolds, headers, lower gear ratios etc.
See More

Competition Cams – High Energy 212/212 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit (Part No.CL51-230-3)

High Energy 212/212 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit

from

$389.99
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.

Product Features:
  • Good blend of efficiency and performance.
  • Perfect choice for performance street rebuilds.
  • Work well with mainly stock components such as rockers, manifolds, heads, compression, torque converters and gears.
See More

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

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

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

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

Performance Cylinder Head Gasket

from

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

Product Features:
  • Fel-Pro Performance head gaskets accommodate the high cylinder pressures and cylinder head movement associated with performance engines.
  • Inserted within a stainless steel armor surrounding each cylinder, wire ring design provides highly concentrated sealing around the combustion chamber.
  • Raises combustion sealing force to roughly three times that of standard head gaskets.
  • Steel wire rings for the greatest combustion seal strength.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More

Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Head Gasket (Part No.5788G)

Ultra Seal: Head Gasket

from

$87.99
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 4.230 inch, Compressed thickness 0.038 inch

Product Features:
  • Five layer (graphite core/perforated steel outer layers) composite construction
  • Graphite core has excellent thermo-conductivity-transfers heat away from hot spots in head preventing gasket burn-out
  • Provides excellent stability, compressibility and high temperature endurance
  • Coated with high temperature silicone to ensure sealing of engine fluids
  • Will not brinell (indent) aluminum cylinder heads
  • For high performance street, drag race and oval track use
  • Compatible w/High Octane Fuel
  • Compatible With Exotic Fuel
See More

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

Performance Cylinder Head Gasket

from

$61.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.

Product Features:
  • Fel-Pro Performance head gaskets accommodate the high cylinder pressures and cylinder head movement associated with performance engines.
  • Inserted within a stainless steel armor surrounding each cylinder, wire ring design provides highly concentrated sealing around the combustion chamber.
  • Raises combustion sealing force to roughly three times that of standard head gaskets.
  • Steel wire rings for the greatest combustion seal strength.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More

Most Popular Performance Water Outlet for 1981 Pontiac Catalinas

Enhance your 1981 Pontiac Catalina with this popular Performance Water Outlet we have in stock, for $26.99.

Spectre – Water Neck; Olds (Part No.4733)

Water Neck; Olds

from

$26.99
Spectre’s Oldsmobile V8 water neck fits Oldsmobile 330, 350, 425 and 455 engines. This water neck has been designed around the OEM specifications and has a chrome plated finish for a lasting look that fits great. This water neck has an additional by-pass hose connection and includes the bolts.

Product Features:
  • Fits Oldsmobile 330, 350, 425 and 455 engines
  • Chrome plated
  • Bolts included
  • Designed for OEM fit
  • Easy to install
  • O-ring/gasket not included
See More

Best-Selling 1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gasket

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

FEL-PRO Performance – Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set (Part No.1200)

Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set

from

$32.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • DESIGNED FOR IMPERFECT SEALING SURFACES — Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment to help seal imperfect sealing surfaces
  • SEALING TECHNOLOGIES — Exclusive sealing innovations and technologies with proprietary materials and unique design features to ensure a superior seal for your repair
  • ENGINEERING EXPERTISE — Parts are designed, reviewed, validated and approved by Fel-Pro engineers through rigorous research and development
  • REAL-WORLD TESTED — Parts are tested on-vehicle and validated to ensure optimal performance on the road
  • EVERY PART FOR THE REPAIR — Fel-Pro gasket sets include every part needed for the repair unless otherwise noted
See More

Top-Quality Performance Intake Manifolds for 1981 Pontiac Catalinas

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Performance Intake Manifold for Pontiac Catalinas and enjoy top-notch performance from $481.99.

Edelbrock – Performer Small-Block Oldsmobile 350 EGR Intake Manifold (Part No.3711)

Performer Small-Block Oldsmobile 350 EGR Intake Manifold

from

$487.99


Product Features:
  • For Idle to 5500 RPM Street-Driven Performance
  • Dual-Plane Low-Rise Intake w/180 deg. Firing Order
  • Patented Runner Design Ensures Broad Torque Curve
  • Excellent Throttle Response and Mid-Range Power
  • 50-State Street Legal if Correct Carburetor Used
See More

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

Performer Small Block Oldsmobile 350 Intake Manifold

from

$481.99


Product Features:
  • Best for the Ultimate in Street High-Performance
  • Designed Idle to 5500 RPM Street-Driven Power
  • Dual-Plane High-Rise Intake w/180 deg Firing Order
  • Produces Incredible Top-End Horsepower
  • Retains Good Throttle Response and Acceleration
  • Larger Plenum and Runners Maximizes Other Upgrades
  • Edelbrock Total Power Package Maximizes Gains
See More

Top Picks for 1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats

Invest in one of our 3 durable Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats for your 1981 Pontiac, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.

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

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

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

Our Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets for 1981 Pontiac Catalinas

Make a smart move for your 1981 Pontiac Catalina with our Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gasket for $61.99.

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

Performance Cylinder Head Gasket

from

$61.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.

Product Features:
  • Fel-Pro Performance head gaskets accommodate the high cylinder pressures and cylinder head movement associated with performance engines.
  • Inserted within a stainless steel armor surrounding each cylinder, wire ring design provides highly concentrated sealing around the combustion chamber.
  • Raises combustion sealing force to roughly three times that of standard head gaskets.
  • Steel wire rings for the greatest combustion seal strength.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More

Top-Rated Performance Engine Brands For Your 1981 Pontiac Catalina

When it comes to finding the perfect Performance Engine for your 1981 Pontiac Catalina, Advance Auto Parts has you covered with a wide selection of high-quality OEM and aftermarket options from 6 trusted brands. We carry the most popular Performance Engine brands including Edelbrock, and more, all known for their exceptional customer ratings (average brand rating of 4.4 stars) and competitive prices, as low as $487.99. Purchasing a Performance Engine from us here at Advance Auto Parts is a smart move for both you and your 1981 Pontiac Catalina, providing peace of mind with parts that meet or exceed OEM standards.

Popular Edelbrock 1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engines

If you’re looking for a top-quality Performance Engine for your 1981 Pontiac Catalina, Advance Auto Parts has exactly what you need with our selection of Edelbrock Performance Engines. We have 1 Edelbrock Performance Engines in stock for this fitment, all known for their durability and precision fit. With prices starting at just $487.99, you’ll find the perfect Performance Engine for your needs and budget. Edelbrock Performance Engines for the 1981 Pontiac Catalina come highly rated, with over 2 customer reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.4 stars. Choosing a Edelbrock Performance Engine from Advance Auto Parts is a smart move to ensure quality and value for your vehicle.
Performer Small-Block Oldsmobile 350 EGR Intake Manifold
from $487.99
(2)
Performer Small-Block Oldsmobile 350 EGR Intake Manifold
“Great street manifold, strong torque, can be driven daily if needed, looks cool when the hood is raised. Glad there are aftermarket suppliers heeding ”

FAQs for 1981 Pontiac Catalina Performance Engines

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

Out of 83 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 $7.99 up to $1,421.99 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 $273.58. 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 11/2/25, 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.