so, 16x8F and 16x9R or go with a larger diameter wheel?

[Phoenix7]

Well,
I know that 17's fill the gap better and I have heard most aesthetic points but what about performance?

I am under the impression that 16x8 and 16x9 wheels will perform as well, if not better, than the same wheels in 17"+ diameters (let's not go into the $400+ price different for 1" more in diameter) but what is the best wheel setup for a car that will see the track once every 3 months?

I argue that by keeping stock diameters I don't have to modify anything for the speedo...braking will be better due to less rotational mass and the gearing will yield the best off-the-line/acceleration performance than 17" or 18" wheels (that are the same width/weight).

so, what do you all think?
Should I waste money on a 16x8F/16x9R setup?

Also is there an equation or rule as to how WIDE of a tire you can put on an 8" wheel or a 9" wheel? I assume I can go 245's on the 8" wheel and 265s in the rear but that's just a blind number.....