1. 17x8" width rim in the front with 17x8.5" width in the back enough of a stagger to remain remotely true to handling characterisstics of an OEM car?


2. If the answer is no and I opt to go 17x7.5" for the front, the offset is +43. Will this work on a car lowered about 1.3"? Thanks in advance guys!

 

The answer for the first question would depend on the tires you use. With those wheels you could go with the 225/45R17 front and 255/40R17 rear depending on the offset and you would be fine.
For question #2 the 43mm offset is very low and I would say would not work especially with the car lowered.
If I can help let me know.