About This Acura RSX Type-S 2005 Build
We love featuring real builds from real owners. This Acura RSX Type-S 2005 sits on a set of 17×9 / 17×9-inch MST Time Attack wheels, and the result speaks for itself.
The owner chose MST for a reason. This brand delivers serious quality and a design language that turns heads at every car meet. We see hundreds of Acura RSX Type-S builds come through WheelFront every month, but this one stands out. The combination of the exterior with the MST Time Attack creates a look that balances aggression with elegance.
Fitment Breakdown: MST Time Attack on the Acura RSX Type-S 2005
I walked around this RSX at the show and the 17x9 plus 20 setup immediately caught my eye. Putting a 9-inch wide wheel on an RSX changes the entire profile of the car. The stance looks aggressive and purposeful compared to the skinny factory wheels.
That +20 offset pushes these MST Time Attacks way out toward the fender lips. You get a massive amount of poke if you aren't careful with your alignment. The front fenders on the DC5 chassis are narrow, so this setup really stretches the limits.
I noticed the stock suspension is currently doing no favors for this aggressive fitment. Since the car sits at factory height, the tires sit well outside the wheel wells. You will definitely need some negative camber to tuck these wheels under the fenders.
The MST Time Attack design features a flat face that clears the Type-S calipers without any drama. You don't need to mess with spacers to push the spokes away from the brake hardware. It clears the hub just fine, fitting snugly on the factory hub bore.
The barrel depth on these 17x9s gives the wheel a nice, deep look that creates a great shadow line. The spokes have a sharp, industrial feel that suits the edgy lines of the 2005 front bumper. It looks like a proper time attack machine even while parked.
Watch out for the inner fender liner if you decide to lower the car later. Those wide 9-inch barrels will definitely eat up your plastic liners during hard cornering. You need to trim or remove them to avoid that nasty rubbing sound on every bump.
The 17-inch diameter is the sweet spot for the RSX platform. It keeps the rotational mass down while leaving enough sidewall to absorb road imperfections. It’s the perfect middle ground for street driving and weekend track sessions.
What We Recommend for Acura RSX Type-S 2005 Owners
If you want to run 17x9s on your RSX, please prepare to roll your fenders. Without a proper roll, you will shred your tires the first time you hit a pothole. It is a mandatory step for any enthusiast running this width.
We usually recommend a +35 offset if you want a flush fitment that requires less aggressive body work. The +20 offset used here is for the guys who want that wide-track, drift-style aesthetic. Choose your offset based on how much work you are willing to do on the sheet metal.
Stick to a square setup if you want to rotate your tires and keep handling neutral. Staggered setups on a front-wheel-drive car like the RSX just cause unnecessary understeer. Keep the same width and offset on all four corners for the best driving dynamics.
Tire choice is just as important as the wheel specs. I suggest running a 235/40/17 to get a nice, square shoulder without too much bulge. If you stretch the tire too much, you lose that mechanical grip you bought the RSX for in the first place.
Don't fall for the trap of buying cheap spacers to fix poor wheel choices. Do your homework and get the offset right the first time. Your wheel bearings will thank you for keeping the scrub radius closer to factory specs.
Style and Build Analysis
The Bronze finish on these MST wheels creates a classic contrast against the factory paint. It gives the RSX a motorsport-inspired vibe that looks right at home on the street. Bronze is a safe bet, but it really pops when the sun hits the metal.
The Time Attack spoke pattern is clean and uncluttered. It doesn't distract from the body lines of the DC5, which remain some of the best in Honda history. The design emphasizes the rotation of the wheel when the car is in motion.
When I looked at the side profile, the proportions felt spot on. The 17-inch wheels fill the wheel arches perfectly without looking like oversized wagon wheels. It balances the long hood and short rear deck of the RSX chassis beautifully.
This car has a presence that screams "built to drive" rather than "built for likes." It looks like it belongs on a mountain pass or a track paddock. That is the kind of aesthetic we always try to push here at the shop.
Compared to other builds I have seen, this one keeps things simple. It doesn't rely on gaudy body kits or massive spoilers to get attention. The wheels do all the heavy lifting, and they do it with absolute authority.
Why We Love This Build
I love this build because it captures the essence of early 2000s tuning culture. Seeing those Bronze Time Attacks bolted to a clean Type-S reminds me why I fell in love with imports. The way the bronze catches the light as the car rolls forward is pure magic.
The wheels provide just enough attitude to turn a stock-bodied RSX into a total head-turner. It sits with a purposeful stance that makes you want to hop in the driver's seat and find the nearest canyon road. It is simple, effective, and damn near perfect.
Builds like this prove that you do not need to overcomplicate things to make a car look incredible. This RSX is a masterclass in choosing the right parts for the right platform. Do yourself a favor and get a set on your car immediately.
Full Specs Breakdown
Here is exactly what this owner is running. We break down every detail so you can replicate this build or use it as a starting point for your own setup.
- Car Make & Model: Acura RSX Type-S 2005
- Vehicle Color:
- Wheel Brand & Model: MST Time Attack
- Wheel Size: 17×9 / 17×9
- Offset: 20 / 20
- Wheel Finish: Bronze
- Tires: Achilles ATR Sport 2 245/40 24.7″x9.6″ / 245/40 24.7″x9.6″
- Suspension: Stock
Before You Buy: Fitment Checklist
We talk to Acura RSX Type-S owners every day. These are the questions we hear most before they pull the trigger on new wheels.
Will 17×9 / 17×9-inch wheels fit my Acura RSX Type-S? Yes, but fitment depends on width, offset, and tire size working together. A wrong offset means rubbing. A wrong tire size means poor handling. Always verify all three.
Do I need to modify my fenders? That depends on your offset and suspension. A conservative offset with stock ride height usually fits without modification. Go aggressive and you may need to roll or pull your fenders.
Can I daily-drive this setup? Absolutely. Thousands of Acura RSX Type-S owners run 17×9 / 17×9-inch wheels every day. The key is choosing the right tire with enough sidewall to absorb road imperfections.
