I think you are overestimating the cost. You don't need a top of the line system. You could probably easily spend about $700-$800 and have a new system, with more free hd space, a new 64 bit os, more ram, and a new video card.

Just winz 64 will run you $200, and combined with the video card, thats almost half the cost of a replacement system.

Thats what I spent 2 years ago for my current system, which is quad core win7 64 bit, 4 gb ram, and an ati 4870 card.

I do understand finance limitations, but when it comes to computers, the hardware completely updates with changes every few years, and it costs far more to buy part individually than in a new pc.

Way too many people take way too many things way too seriously.