17" versus 14" tires

Ah, could be. I was thinking late '90s. I know the year wheels I have used a 245/45R17.

Be aware that a 235/55R17 is about 27.2" OD, while my 245/45R17 is 25.7" OD. That's a pretty significant difference in height. I know my tires get close to the middle bolt at the rear of the front wheel opening, can't imagine there being more than 3/4" of clearance on my setup. But maybe it will fit depending on offset and tire alignment. My gut says no, almost certainly if you have less offset than I do (+30mm - 1/4"?), but I haven't tried it.

no, I don't think you can fit anything much taller than a 25.5"-26" tire in front without getting really precise with backspace/offset, ride height, and possible mods to the leading edge of the fender. F/M/J's were much roomier in the front in that regard. I was talking about taller options for the rear of the car to better fill out the wheelwell. 235/55R17 is about the same height as a 255/60R15 or 255/50R17...like I said, if I go 17's on mine, I'm leaning towards a 225-235/45R17 in the front, and a 255/50R17 in the back....