Perticularly 17x9's and whatever tire sizes,, did the car feel any faster through the gears. Or possibly slower changing over from 16's?? I just point these out because of popularity and for how many people on here have them?

 

No

 

The car might feel a little lighter on it's feet with lighter wheels, this is true. I know when I went to my heavy 18" 3pc wheel setup (+6-7lbs per corner) I can tell you I absolutely felt it.

 

As stated, bulky wheels will make the car feel a little sluggish, but I doubt you'll see a measurable difference in day to day use. My Fifteen 52 Tarmacs make mine feel a little mushy in the steering department.

 

My volk ce28n's shed 5-6lbs per corner vs. stock 16s, and I definitely felt an improvement.

 

Less rotating mass will allow quicker spin up and spin down so the feel will be more responsive but there is not enough change to make a measurable difference. Just as a lightened flywheel changes engine response there is a very minor change as less energy is stored so the feel is more nervous and less smooth.

 

You might be shedding weight on the rims but adding it all back and possibly more depending on tires.
255 square will add some weight...

 

You'll be way faster in the corners with square 255/40/17 summer tires. In a straight line....probably not much of a difference.