Question on Boxster Wheels

I have purchased new wheels for my 2000 Boxster, 17"x8.5 front & 17"x9.5 rear. Right now I have the stock 17" 17”x7 front / 17”x8.5 rear wheels on my car and blew one front tire. I'm getting ready to buy 2 new tires because the 3 Pirelli’s I have now are in really good shape, but I can't see buying only 1 tire. I want to move the rear 255/40ZR 17 to the front and put the 2 new tires on the rear. Can I go a little wider on the rear, if yes, what? Is it a good idea to put the new ones on the back or the front? I’m also looking at mixing tires, keeping 2 Pirelli’s and buying either 2 Michelin’s or Goodyear’s, any suggestions? Not really liking the Pirelli’s but they are like new.

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[Nick at Pelican Parts]

I would check the tirerack site for the maximum tire size you can use. I don't have much experience installing varying tire sizes on these vehicles.

- Nick