Will 17x9.5 rims that were on a 1988 C4 fit my 2002 SS? I'm getting them with R compounds really really cheap so even if they don't fit it isn't the end of the world, but I would like to know before I drive an extra vehicle 400 some miles to Pittsburgh for an event only to find out they won't fit.

Right now I have the 17x9 split 5 spoke SS wheels with 275/40R17, other rims have same tires size but are 17x9.5.


Thanks,
Aaron

 

Wheels from a 1988 Corvette will fit your car. The offset would be my only concern. I believe (someone correct me if I'm wrong) the offset for those wheels is 56mm. It's a little more inboard than I would have on my car. My street 17x9.5 Borbet wheels have a 48mm offset and I have just a little rubbing on EXTREMELY hard parking turns on one side only where my plastic inner fender well is slightly warped where it sticks out a little. You're will be a little more inboard than mine.

 

According to SLP the split 5's have a offset of 2" = 50-51mm

Math Time:

1988 C4
17x9.5 (1/2" wider than stock)
56 mm offset (0.2-0.3 in further in than stock)

This means that the inside of the tires will be about 1/2" closer in

Is this math correct?

This isn't an STI where you can't stick a toothpick between the rim and the calipers, it's an SS. I would hope there is half of an inch clearance. One thing in my advantage is that I do not have lowering springs in either.

 

Yes, you're pretty close. Lowering the car really isn't the issue, it's how far inboard the wheels are. Hey, if they're that cheap (I don't know what you're paying for them) then it's worth a shot! It'll be close. What you will have to worry about hitting is the inner fenders and sway bar.