New owner 2011 cooper s all stock. I bought 17x8 wheels with 35 offset. Will these work? What size tire is best I've read so many different opinions but what would truly look best?

 

OEM 18" MINI wheels are 17x8 ET52.
Your will start out 17mm (2/3") sticking too far outboard. Depending on the width of the tire you choose, the rears would be the first to start rubbing.

OEM tire size is 205/40-R18.
You've already given away 17mm of clearance towards the fenders. Fitment wise, that is an equivalent of running stock wheels with 17x2 = 34mm wider tires, or 240mm width - those wont fit. Your challenge now is to avoid rubbing the fender liners with the outside of the wheel/tire.

I would worry less about looks, and more about performance and fitment.

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Thanks for you input I guess I shouldn't have taken the salesman advice that wills would fit no problem.