I don't know anything about offsets and have read many conflicting opinions during my searches.
I was considering buying Sparcos NT-R
Fronts are 17x7 with a +45offset. The fronts only weigh only 15lbs
Rears are 17x8 with a +42offset. The rear weighs 16lbs
Russ has the Nippon Racing Lightstars on his car which are 17x7.5 all the way around and runs a +40 offset. Russ' wheels are tucked in there perfectly. For a representation got search and type in Nippon Racing Lightstars. Only one thread will come up. Check out the pics.
I plan on lowering the car 1-1.5inchs and don't want rubbing to be a concern. I also don't want the rims going outboard at all as I hate when peoples rims stick out. It looks funny. (Unless you like the FL style Gold Spoked Dayton look) I am getting mixed messages about what size tire to put on the rim. The fellow at tirediscount told me that 225 45 17 front and 265 40 17 rear. What do you think are the optimal tire sizes that I should use. I love the rims and really want them on my car as Russ won't sell me his. (Russ you are selfish)
Please only give your input unless you are a gear head who is very knowledgable about offsets.
Cameron

 

Russ wrote alot of good info on thist subject lately. I think from what I have read from his posts that the 265/40/17 will be the problem in the rear. Read Russ's posts in this thread and it will explain offsets and his tire selection. http://forums.s2ki.com/forums/showthread.p...threadid=192445

 

Moving to wheel/tire forum.

 

+42 in the rear will probably rub.. Unless you have a real skinny tire.. Front offsets are fine..

Tires need to be (optimal but not the only sizes):

Front: 205/50 - 17 --- Could do 225/45 - 17

Rear: 245 or 255/45-17 (WILL RUB- 285/45 - 17)