Since you have no tranny, you have the option to use short axles found on '66 and earlier beetle. You can use a late tranny & have the tranny builder install the short axles. In doing so you will be able to run stock wide 5 5.5" Mangel rims & 205 section tires with drum brakes. If you use a later, wider drum or a disc conversion you can have the centers of the wheel cut & rewelded by a wheel shop to increase backspace. One short axle spyder owner runs 6" section wheels (built up by wheel shop). If you run long axles, wide 5 MUST be cut and rewelded, regardless of brake choice, since they are not available off the shelf with the same backspace as the wheels furnished by Beck.
Wide 5 4.5" will fit the front without problem. 5.5" by 185/65 will fit, with rubbing on full lock jounce only, if rims are cut and rewelded.
Do archive search on Spyderclub as this has been the topic of some discussion.
Take the opportunity to build a tranny and spec gearing as appropriate to the power characteristics of the engine. Mid engine, flop the ring gear, beef & gear as appropriate, furnish with short axles. If you run drums, have them furnish complete to backing plates.
Don't let this guy limit your choices.
