I saw a geo convertible today. 16 inch wheels seem trivial. heck go for donks.
donked convertible geo...
if the car can use taller gears for your engine scenario, big wheels matches the peak of what you built a bit better. my 1781cc sube is right at home with 25.7 diameter versus a squatting forever 23..I think it may have even been 22.5..
it is not the wheel but overall diameter to make a goal.