[racer_d]

1) Looks like a fun place to go AXing!

2) In time, once you are hooked, you will have a second (and 3rd) set of rims. You will likely get a small tire trailer or simply trailer your car to events. It is indeed, a slippery slope (and fun, btw!)

3) If you haven't autocrossed, stick with the car as is. See how bad the tires get used up. If you think it worth the $500-1000 for another set of 17" twists, and then the $800-1100 for tires, go for it!

4) for the most part, if you still have the stock alignment, you will notice tire wear around the outside shoulder of the front tires most, then a bit on the rears, but otherwise you should be fine.

5) I drive 300+ miles to track events on my "track tires" without fear. As long as you have some tread, have some fun!