71-72 vs. 73-74 b-body outer door handles

Does anyone know the “TRUE” difference between the 71-72 part number and the 73-74 version? I have them sitting side by side and virtually see know cosmetic difference. Is there a mechanical difference like maybe the pivot point? Any input from anyone?

No reply’s kind of confirms my findings of not much differance. If anyone should have any info it would be appreciated. At swap meets especially I’m told there is a differance. Like I said earlier I know the part numbers are different but not sure what is different in the handle itself.

The area where the rod hole is different.

Thank you my friend! Appreciate the input.

Do you see what I'm talking about? I don't have any in front of me and it has been a while but IIRC the 73-4 handle won't fit into the 71-2 door or something like that.

the handle's lever hole length is different between the two also...One has a longer travel than the other...EDIT:Mabe we're both saying the same thing {?}

Here are some Nos 71-2 and 73-4 door handles. They are exact on the outside. It's the difference on the inside mechanism part. The 73-4 have longer plates on them where the lock rod attaches. I believe they both fit in the door openings as they are the same openings 71-4 if I remember. Hope that helps...71-2 is blue box and 73-4 is the tan cardboard one...

Also 71/72 has 2 return springs along with the shorter linkage rod lever,thats how I used to ID them before I knew about the lever length difference.

Thanks everyone, unfortunately I am going to confuse things yet again. I have my 74 handles from a car that I have owned since 77 that look identical to the handles on the blue box which you say are 71-72. This whole thing is just a bit confusing.

I think they will work as long as you use the right lock rod for the year handle you are using...

Thanks again!!

What about coupe vs sedan? Any difference front or back?