It depends on how you're driving the car. If it's a show car or you're going to be driving a lot of highway miles, 17s can be quite nice. At highway speeds, your Civic will feel more stable.

Now, if you're driving around town with some highway mixed in and/or doing some track events(auto-x, etc), you'll be happier with the 16s. They will corner better and you shouldn't experience rubbing(depending on your tire/suspension setup).

 

well i decided on a 17 inch rim because it will only be a summer rim and tire set up, mostly be highway miles and i do not race (currently). i would have chose 16's if i didnt have the suspension set up im running (omni street package and omni front and rear camber. the car is lowered 2.5 inches) these are the rims im going with. just need about $300 more till i order.

 

What does your suspension have anything to do with your rim size?

 

hahah, yeah, i meant to say "i would have chose 16's if i did autocross but i have a street suspension set up and i dont plan on racing. yeah, i read that again and it dosnt make sense. :doh:

 

Omni street coilovers are good enough for Autocross.

 

OK FINE!! ill race. for slips. :rockon:

 

yea, on my last car, i had 17" motegi FF6 with 205/40/17 and i rubbed the fender. but i totaled that car.... My car is currently dropped 2inches, can civics handle 215 tires in the front w/o rubbing? I still cant decide 205 or 215?

 

hey edecho, if you get 17's be prepared to race. you know how it is. street set up and 17's means you and me are heading to the nearest autocross event and getting bitch slapped by the competition.

 

You don't want to unless you don't mind driving 70mph at 5000-6000rpms

I tried that setup back in 2000/2001 autocross season. Great gearing advantage but sucked for daily driving.

 

Suspension has alot to do with rim size. With 17s and dropped too low you have more chance of rubbing with the wrong offset than with 16s.

Plus with 16s you have less rotational mass so you are less show and more go.