Please help me identify my column

That column appears to be a 73-76 A-Body column for power steering. I have had a few like that and you are correct the mesh pattern is different than the earlier columns. Although it won't be correct for your 71, that column will work just fine in your car. Just use the firewall plate, all of the wiring and brackets from you existing column. You will also need a coupler for power steering if you don't already have one. You may also want to use your existing ignition lock since I am sure you don't want to have to change your door locks or carry an extra key.

Here is another thought. If you want the correct looking column, just take the collars from the floorshift column and transfer them to your 71 column.

Joe