It doesn't have "factory lift", but it does have stiffer and larger springs than a normal Wrangler. This is why some say it has a lift. The suspension n my 06 sat about 1.75 inches higher than a noraml wrangler before I lifted it myself.
The stock size wheel for the Jeep Rubicons are a 16" wheel.
I suspect not for the 285R70x16s. I am running 285R75x16s on my 06 Rubicon Unlimited. It has a 2" lift and 1/1.5" body lift. I have good clearance since I have that added lift.
6.5"
17"
15" wheels fit a Rubicon fine. All the other TJs have 15" wheels. The only reason that the Rubicon has a 16x7 is so that Jeep could put a 31" tire on it. The 31x10.50r15 rubs, but the metric version is like a 31x9.50. most people that lift Rubicons replace the stock wheels with 15's.
Yes
NO A RUBICON WITH 1.5" FACTORY LIFT WILL ACCEPT 32" TIRES AND THAT IS THE BIGGEST STOCK. I believe you are thinking of a TJ Wrangler 1997-2006 which requires at least 3" of lift to runn 33s on the trail without rubbing. A JK 2007-Present Can fit 33s stock with little rubbing and the JK Rubicon comes from the factory with 32" BFG KM2s Sources- Owned and have been around Jeeps all my lift and currently own 2005 Rubicon 4" lift and 33s, 83 CJ7 awaiting Restoration, and 78 CJ5 building up
35" with a 2" spacer
No, the shocks are a little taller but will have no effects on stance. They may make it a little harsher of a ride.
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon was introduced in 2003.
No, the Rubicon was not available in 1997.
The 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon comes with a 255/75-17 BF Goodrich Mud Terrain KM1