Tire Size choice on 17" rims Options

[exxtractor]

I think 17" rims are the way to go, 1. to decrease cost, and 2. to prevent bodyrub after I drop the car 1.5" using eibach sportline springs. 3. I also want to keep the speedometer as close as possible. I have a '94 ST and was looking for inexpensive white rims for my white car. However, after checking out tirerack and whalen tires I have a questions that I know you guys can answer. I also live out in Vancouver where it rarely snows, but rains a ton like Seattle.

1. Will 17x7 rims look good compared to 17x7.5? Or is it really not much of a difference?

2. Would you go with 205/45 R17 or 215/40 R17? Info. from Whalen's site, makes me belive the 205 might be a "better" fit since the speedometer will be closer, and the sidewall a little taller, but will it look too "skinny" on the car since the celica does seem to have a fairly deep fender well, but I'm not looking to have my tires stick outside the fender, this a terible look to me. But I did note that on tirerack they recommend the 215/40 R17 tires and there seems to be more availability and a more affordable prices at 215/40 R17?

3. Will a 40mm offset be an issue since I heard we need between 35->38mm?
Any replies would be appreciated.

This post has been edited by exxtractor: Apr 13, 2003 - 6:15 PM

[hi_rider]

I've just put on my superleggeras in 17x8, with 40 mm offset and 215-40-17 FZ4s...
Couldn't be better !!!!! Wheels are sticking close to the fender's edge !
I don't have my 1.5 drop yet, tomorrow.
I don't think it'll rub, plenty of space in celica fenders....
With 215-40, you have hell looking wide tires....woaaaaaa !!!