AutoX / Track Wheels + Tires for 2009 WRX

[Nova582]

Hey all,

I've been getting more and more into Autocross and small track events this summer with my new '09 WRX sedan.

The thing is completely stock right now, and from talking with the people I race with it seems that a dedicated set of sticky tires and wheels is the first upgrade I should think about.

I've been doing a bunch of research on my wheel options and I've decided on the Nitto NT-01 as far as the tire goes.

I'm running into problems finding the best size for the tire, as well as a set of wheels that will work well.

So, my question to you is:

I really don't want to get into modifying the suspension and/or rolling fenders right now, so keeping the car stock, what would be the best tire size for a tire DEDICATED to track (drive to the course, put on the Nittos, race, take them off, drive home) that won't rub? Should I stay at the stock size? or can i move up a width or two for more grip?

Also, what wheels, and sizes would you guys recommend putting these tires on? Stock 17x7 55s? or could/should I go wider?

Again, I really don't want to do any suspension modification or roll the fenders yet, so I'm looking for the best grip with no rub or damage to the car.

Bonus points if you can find a set of wheels that would work well from discount tire direct, as they seem to have the best deals on Nittos, and free shipping to boot.

Thanks a ton!

[oldfartracer]

Don't know if this will help.
Grassroots did a test on and 08 WRX and ended up with a 17x7.5 with a 235/40/17. They did do coilovers and swaybars, the stock suspension was just to soft. They ate two set of tires before they upgraded.

[mosc]

If you keep the offset up, you can fit 245 wide no problem. Wider will probably kick you into a higher auto-x class so I'd avoid it. 245/40/17 is a great size but not sure if it's available for NT01's... There's lots of other good R comp tires though. NT01's seem cheap but they don't last as long as some of the others.

245/40/17 requires 17x8" rim or ideally 17x8.5". Problem with 8.5" rims is that finding enough offset is challenging. I know Rota makes some relatively cheap 17x8" +48 rims which should work. If your suspension is stock, I don't think they'll rub in the rear. Remember the 08+ have slightly wider fenders than the 02-07.

Personally, I'd go digging on nasioc. There's lots of great rims/tire on there slightly used for cheap. If they're a track set, you don't care about a few scratches anyway and you'll burn through the tires while you're learning to drive properly so no worries there.