I found a local company (so no shipping) that may be able to do a "black chrome" coating on my existing stock 16" IROC wheels. If it works (apparently, there can be issues coating some older GM wheels because of the quality of the material GM used), I could get all 4 done for $700. The plan would be for them to do one, if it works then I'd pay them to do all of them.

The alternative is to buy new wheels, probably 17". Would I be gaining anything in terms of performance or ride by going with the bigger/newer wheels? Guessing I can get a new set for around $1,000, give or take.

Also, where are good sites to shop for wheels? I've checked Summit, Tire Rack and a few other places but haven't really found a great variety yet.

 

I would not spend $700 to redo a set of IROC wheels when a new set sells for about 1/2 of that...

You definetly want to go 17", specifically a 275-40-17 tire on a 9.5" wheel. The difference is amazing - I swapped a set of CTW motorsports wheels for a set of 16" on the GTA I picked up; the car went from soft and sloppy to firm and crisp (23 year old stock suspension has some float too). Around $1100 a set plus shipping & tires - good tires are in the $175 each range in the size you need.

 

I really like the stock look of wider tires on back - is there a way to accomplish that with 17" inch wheels that doesn't compromise performance or anything?

 

Check out the company that paul just mentioned online. Those are an excellent choice. Go check out the local wheel shop.

The tire is what gives the car more performance, not necessarily the wheel. 17" or 18" rims have more performance tire selections in our sizes now.