I had the opportunity to try some 7x14 GM rally wheels, with G60 R14 tires, on my Malibu (F60 r14 for the front, but on 7" wide rims).

The clearance on the rear, between the tire and frame was approx 3/8". The front fit was so tight that the inner wheel weight, (hammer on type) actually brushed some grease off the tie rod end boot. I could just slip a piece of cardboard between the wheel and the tie rod end. Naturally I figure the tolerences are too tight, to allow for any bushing movement, or tire/wheel flex. Too bad really as they were nice looking on the car, and the price was good.

So how much clearance should one safely allow?

Anybody know what the maximum wheel width on the 78-70 Malibu is? I could have sworn I have seen other Malibu's with the corvette style rally wheels on. How did they make them fit? Can you put a spacer behind the wheel to get more clearance?