I replaced the factory Goodyear run on flat tires on my Camaro SS with a set of Firehawk Indy 500 tires. They had a more comfortable ride than the factory tires thanks to not having the run flat tire supports, but peak handling was affected. For everyday driving they were fine, but if pushed they could feel a little mushy, both during hard acceleration and in curves. The reason I chose them was cost. I really wanted Michelin PS4S, but they were $1,500 for the set back in 2020. I paid $828 out the door for the Firestones. The rears were 275-35-20.
I agree with the notion 205 or 215 will be too skinny looking. But that's just my opinion. As for reality, I see two issues with your plan. That 70's Corvette looks really good with those wheels, but those are not the same wheels you have. They look custom with a dished look (I like it).
Your other problem is selection. With the general migration to taller wheels combined with the effects of the pandemic, there aren't many options in a 16" tire sized for your wheels. I have 16"x8" factory wheels and for most of the life of my truck I have run 255-50-16 tires. The last few years there's only been one street tire in that size: BF Goodrich G Force Sport Comp 2. I have had a set previously on my truck and they performed great, and lasted over 30K miles, too. I have been trying to get a set of these tires for my S10 for a couple months now, but the tire shop I use says Michelin has no plans in the near future to make any more. Not only that, I can no longer find the next size down in the same tire: 245-50-16. I ordered some General GMAX in 245-50-16, since they are the only Summer tire in that size that's available.