Can a Mini be lowered with 17x7 wheels and 215/45 tires without rubbing .. I was thinking of a 45 offset and some Pirelli P Zero Nero M+S tires....

 

From what I've learned so far, minis that are lowered are subjected to using and offset between 42-48. It's kind of hard to say with the 215/45/17 tire. From the research that I have done personally, a few people have encountered rubbing. Some say that on speed bumps, they get minimal rub. You also have to factor in on how you use the Cooper, whether you commute by yourself or if you carry passengers with you frequently.
A few of the other NAM members will tell you to just use a dremmel tool to take a little off of the rear inner fender. This seems to solve rubbing issues.

I had this dilemna also, so I decided to go with the 205/45/17 tire. Now I can't wait to get some H-sport springs.

Good luck on your decision. Hopefully the others on the board can give you a few other pointers!

 

For either MC or MCS should be OK.
Give Alex@tirerack a call to confirm- he sells the P Zero Nero M+S (400 AA A W speed rated, Ultra High Perf All season) and will know if it has a square shoulder that might lead to a minor rub under a full 4 person load. +45mm offset should be OK with any of the lowering springs.

Common Max performance summer tires in that size include the Goodyear Eagle F1 GS-D3 (280 AA A Y speed rated) and the Bridgestone Potenza Pole Position S-03 (220 AA A Y speed rated) but they cost more and don't wear as long. Do you have the need to drive in light snow? If so then the P Zero Nero M+S would be better.

All three are very highly rated in their categories from tirerack customers.

 

When I bought my 18" OZ's with 35 aspect Kumho ECSTA's I was warned they might rub with the STOCK springs.... well, I actually installed the H&R green springs.... not a single rub anywher, on paved roads, on nasty roads and at Mid Ohio..... I must admit though....they are SLOW compared to the 15" Victorracers.....VERY slow..... good for rain tires and for showing off....

 

18x7.5" wheels are not always a problem with a lowered MINI. Depends on a good wheel offset of about +42 to 48mm and the right sized tire about 215/35-18 will fit fine.

Kumho Victoracer V700 tires are R-compound and for the "track". With a tire wear rating of 50 you'd be wasting rubber by driving on the street although there isn't much to stop you from having some fun.