I have a 2003 GT, that I plan to drop about 1.25" in the not too distant future. In the mean time, it is about to need tires and I want to replace the factory wheels when I put tires on it. Can anyone tell me how much wider than the stock 17"x8" will fit up front without rubbing. Also if anyone has gone to 18" how wide can you go?Finally, I am considering the all chrome bullit style wheels. Any feedback or pics of white GT's with these or similar wheels would be appreciated?
THANKS

 

I have a similiar (kind of) question, but more in line with tire height. I have a completely stock 2004 Mustang GT and will need to replace at least two tires before next month's mandatory state inspection. I can't stand the amount of gap between the tire and fender well and have wondered about what options I might have (besides lowering the car); should I consider upgrading to 18" wheels and tires or could I stick with the 17" rim size and go with a taller tire (what would I give up with this option?)?

 

Not that I'm an expert or anything, but here's my two cents. The main draw back to the 18" is the additional cost of rubber, and more inertia. The larger wheels are heavier (in most cases) and have more spinning momentum when braking and accelerating. I picked this little tip up from my dad who does SCCA spec RX-7 club racing. They only use 15"...... You will also need to recal the speedo. This is not a bad option though. I would stay away from larger profile tires on the 17's though. The taller side wall will be noticable in cornering and such. Besides, I don't think (in my opinion) that more rubber would be an appealing way to fill the wheel well. Hope this helps?

 

I have 18/9 265/35 up front . no problem w/ rubbing . you will need to check the back spacing , I think stock is 5.72" . mine are 5.94" .

 

Thanks, I notice you have the all chrome bullitts, They look great!!! Where did you get them? Do you have any drop? And back spacing is.......??

 

Usually with 18" rims the common choices for size is 265/35 in the front and for the rear either 285/35, 295/35 or 315/30. Also if u want a lil narrower or higher profile on the front tire you can go with 255/40 but that's as skinny as i'd suggest on a 9" rim. Also just fyi those sizes i listed for the rear are for a 10" rim, if you do 18x9 all around you may want to stick to 265s. If you have a choice do 18x9 up front and 18x10 in the rear.

 

I'm gonna stick with the same size all round, to allow rotation. As far as I know the only advantage to larger diameter wheels are the appearence, and MAYBE better top end. On the other hand, the rubber is considerable more and you have more inertia when braking, accelerating and to some degree cornering. Any good reason to go with 18's that I'm forgetting. I definately wanna go to the 9" width though.

 

The only reason to go for 18s would be for looks or to run 14" brakes, thats all they're good for...