raked v. level & two-2s v. 4-the-same

[oasis]

What are the handling characteristic differences between a raked car versus a level car? ... and a car with larger rear tires than fronts versus all four tire being the same?

My situation: I have a 1971 1302 -- currently stock, but nearly ready for first GL mod. That mod will include MaXX struts or Kerscher struts, four-wheel disk brakes with 5x100 bolt pattern and these wheels (just purchased):
BBS RX-II (16x6½ et 42) wheels for VW
Also, my intent is to keep the stock fenders. (I'm keeping my post to American terms and spellings for consistency.)

Two of the wheels came with 205/55-16 tires. I was told to use 205/45-16 tires on the front. Although unwanted at first, the two supplied tires are in surprising very good condition and are actually closer in total diameter to the stock tires than the 45 series tires.

I'm trying to decide whether to go with 55s all around which (I'm guessing) would sacrifice some lowering up front*; go with the 55s in back and buy 45s for the front; or something else while also deciding whether the car should be extra lowered up front or kept level. (* maybe 55s won't work at all)

Important footnote: I am looking for better handling, not necessarily the best handling. While I realize this means a trade-off in harshness -- which is perfectly acceptable -- I do not want a total trade-off. Since my driving and riding experiences have been limited to Supers in stock condition mostly, I do not know how to quantify what I want.