[strat61caster]

17x9's on stock struts will limit your camber options, 8's and 225's will be cheaper and more camber via a pair of bolts to make those tires last longer, if you're just having fun and don't care about lap times I'd go for the 8's. If you know you'll want the extra grip then don't faff around and go for the 9's.

Falken RT660's are closer to RE71R/A052 then they are to Hankook RS4's
The cheap long lasting Falken is the RT615k+

Nankang AR1's and CR1's are getting some good reviews as cheap and grippy. AR1 even though softer should be more stable over a session.
Goodyear Supercar 3's I think are the other under the radar tire right now.

And I second Firehawks as a cheap 300tw tire, but they're not quick at all and I understand some people think they're frustrating to drive on.

Edit; and yes, 17x9's fit in the rear of the car with the seat down, three across the rear seat, one in the trunk, should have enough space for a jack and pair of stands, small toolkit, and helmet.