I'd stick with 16's, and a 205/55 or 215 or 225/50 tire. I think your car might sit a bit higher than mine, though. Check the link in my sig for pics.
Function before fashion.
'96 Contour SE
"Toss the Contour into a corner, and it's as easy to catch as a softball thrown by a preschooler." -Edmunds, 1998