Maximum rim backspacing for narrow bodied car, Seeking opinions and measurements Options

[toadman]

I am looking at a set of used rims for my stock, narrow bodied 1976 914. These rims are not local to me. The rims would be fitted with 205/50/15 Hoosier race tires and used for drivers ed events.

I currently have the tires on stock 5.5X15 4-bolt Fuchs alloys. I was concerned about possible tire rubbing on the front shock dust covers so I removed them. I have used this tire/rim setup for two drivers ed events and had no problems. The backspacing on my Fuchs rims is 4.65 in.

The rims I am considering are 7X15 and have the stock 4-bolt pattern. However, these rims have a 5.5 in. backspacing.

First question - does anyone here have one of the older ATS 7X15, 4-bolt rims that can measure the backspacing for me?

Second question(s) - is anyone here running 205/50/15 tires on ATS 7X15 4-bolt rims, or other 7 in. wide rims, on a narrow bodied car? If yes, did you have to pull the rear fenders or make other modifications? Were there any problems with tires rubbing the body or fenders or suspension parts at the front or rear?

Third question - do you think 205/50/15 Hoosier race tires on 7X15 rims with 5.5 in. backspacing will fit a narrow bodied car without any problems? Stated another way, if the tire stays the same, will going to a wider rim affect the width of the tire once it is mounted and on the ground?

Thanks, everyone