Tires: low profile substitute, low profile tires, accomedate

Question
I just bought a 99 Alero to replace my Lebaron that was stolen. I am on a very limited fixed income and live in a very rural area(some dirt roads). Now I'm told that the car need new tires and the "only"ones for it are expensive low profile tires. I need to know if it is possible to safely substitute regular tires and if it's necessary to change rims to accomedate that? Would all 4 have to b replaced at the same time or could I get away with 2 now and 2 later?
Thank you for your expert advice.
Valorie in rural Ohio

Answer
Valorie,

What I am about to advise you means you have to be very careful - no hotrodding  - and you have to pay attention to your tires.

It is OK to use a lower speed rating, but unless you change rims, you won't be able to get away from the low profile tires.

You can change 2 at a time, but normally you would put the new tires on the rear - but you are also supposed to put the higher speed rating on the rear.  This creates a dilemma.

So put the new ones on the rear and driving extremely conservatively.