Windows XPS on a 1640 done and reviewed?

I have an XPS 1640 and an ancient Dell Insiprion 9300 (1.6 GHz and just 2 GB ram) with XP. Running identical programs on identical machines,. the XPS (2.6 GHz processor and 7200 RPM HD) is MUCH slower running programs (e.g., website creating programs, photoshop, etc.) The culprit must be the Vista.

I see the topic raised here before but no real clear answers. Has anyone eliminated the Vista on the 1640 completely and run the XP in its place?

If so, what about the drivers?
Was it a simple install?
Did everything work as it should?
Did you notice improvements in speed?

I'll be the machine will run far cooler too as Vista is a resource hog and I'd love to lose it.

From what I've read of the next Windows it doesn't really fix these issues it merely modifies Vista. True?

Thanks

 

I would also suggest that you do a fresh installation of the system, as it is entirely possible that crap-ware is slowing down the system.

There are plenty of instances (I have two computers) where the performance between Vista and XP are very similar.

 

Great idea to remove the bloatware with a clean installation, or at least un install it. Whenever I buy a new Dell computer, I almost immediately do a clean install.

 

I'm a relative newbie at this. How do I do a "clean install"?
Thanks for the help!

 

Using a Vista Retail Disc.

 

But what about all the drivers specific to the Dell 1640?
If having to purchase a new "retail disc" why not just do the install with XP?