Improve my "stance" without ruining my car

[carjerk]

Hi, please don't dismiss this post as some idiot who wants to ruin the ride and handling of his car with ridiculous amounts of camber, chopped springs, and some nasty wheel spacers.

I've got a standard 2005 WRX Impreza Wagon running standard wheels, tyres, and suspension, and I'm happy with the ride and handling. It's just that the offset of the wheels make it look at bit... well... dorky from the front and back.

What are my options? I want to keep it looking reasonably stock, but don't like the idea of wheels spacers. Do the standard STI wheels have a better offset, or am I gonna have to go for aftermarket wheels?

Sorry in advance for sounding like a complete numpty.

[TEKNOPUG]

STi wheels are 1/2" wider.

[MurderousCrow]

carjerk said:

What are my options? I want to keep it looking reasonably stock, but don't like the idea of wheels spacers. Do the standard STI wheels have a better offset, or am I gonna have to go for aftermarket wheels?

Increasing the offset either with wider wheels or spacers will alter the suspension geometry, as well as increasing wear on the componentry (specifically wheel bearings by creating a longer moment arm). You might want to look into lowering the car a little, however if you do this I'd suggest a roll center correction kit should be added too. A conservative drop of 20-30mm will improve the car's road presence IMO, and if done correctly will largely preserve ride and handling traits.