Tires: oversize rims/tires, 5 spoke rims, rims tires

Question
I am looking to purchase a 2003 Toyota Corolla CE but the (factory) 15" rims and
tires have been upgraded to 17" aluminum 5-spoke rims with new tires (not low
profile).  I'm concerned about the safety factor as well as how the front end  
components could be affected.  Would this have an effect on the speedometer
(mph) reading also?  Comments please!!!  Thank you in advance.

Answer
Dear George,
Thank you for using AllExperts.
It would all depend on the 17" size that were fitted to the '03 Corolla CE.  My data shows that the original tire size was P185/65R15 86S (86 is the load indication, 'S' is the speed rating indication).  In this case a 205/50R17 tire size might be an appropriate "plus" fitment as it would have sufficient load capacity and would barely fall within the generally acceptable tire industry standards for overall diameter difference compared to the original tires.  You'll have to let me know what the 17" size is in order for me to make an assessment of its suitability.
DT