Having tested the 205 RA-1 back to back with the R-888 & 225 RA-1 (with Traqmate), I found the performance to be similar to the 225 R-888, and a bit worse than the 225 RA-1, both in grip, and overheating. My tire preference is 225 RA-1 > 205RA-1 > R-888.
A few other things to consider:
The way we measure track, the narrower 205's would require spacers to reach maximum allowable track. Using early offset wheels on a late car might also work, but may exceed max allowable track width with the 205's (definitely would with the 225's).
The SE30's do not seem to get the same life we do on their 225's, so some of the cost savings will be eaten up by decreased tire life, and more frequent mounting/balancing charges.
A 3 tire Spec series is a mess, IMO.