race rims/tires for 79 camaro

[tek1011]

Hello all- I've got a 79 camaro that I'm going to use for scca solo racing, and am looking for tire/rim size recommendations. It's been suggested to try a 17x9 with 275/40-17's, but I doubt the 9"'s will fit without trimming the rear lip or cutting the front fenderwells. Plus other than steel Cragars (still don't know their backspacing) all the 9 inch wide rims are custom order from American, Center Line, etc. I'm leaning towards 17x8's, with a 4 1/2" backspace and either a 255/40 or 245/45 tire, based on my own measurements on the car. Any suggestions from anyone with experience with this on this vintage F-body would be most helpful. Thanks in advance!