1st of all, i would suggest a helms manual to anybody with a car..lol..
2nd...the turning thing sounds like your cv joints might be going bad, does it sound like clicking? bad cv joints are caused by accelerating quickly while turning
3rd....rim sizes are how however big you want them, if you ask, you'll get a million different opinions to go on, but like with everything, the best opinion you should take is one you decide on your own....
good luck w/ everything with you car, and ever need anything dont be afraid to ask...thanks