SVTDriver1: There were a lot of questions in your post.. here's some of my answers.
Originally posted by SVTDriver1:
Yes, they will stand out more and be much nicer to look at but here is my delima/argument. I want looks without degraded performance. I LOVE taking curves and sharp turns.
I used to track my SVT with 18" wheels on Toyo T1-S tires. CEG'ers who saw my car last summer at Gingerman Raceway can tell you it handled just fine. There's no way you could beat on your car on the streets like I do at the track. 18's are not a problem, just make sure you can afford good tires. If you're having to compromise on tires because of $$ issues, then get the 17's.
Originally posted by SVTDriver1:
I'd still love to do this with 18's but I am being told that it will cut down my turning radius a lot, and if not a lot then more than I would care to lose considering I love to manuever my SVT.
Whoever told you that has no knowledge of the Ford Contour. With the proper offset wheel, you can run a 225 series tire on an 18" wheel without any scraping or rubbing issue.
Again, that was my setup at the racetrack, with a 3" drop. The car was almost tucking rim while cornering without ever rubbing in front or back. The only mod I had done was bang in the metal dimple where the rear fender meets the bumper.
While parking the car I always turned the steering wheel lock to lock and never rubbed either.
It's all about the setup.
Get the 18's.
You know you want to. 
