Well, my answer is that with XP you need at least 1 gig of RAM, so the old computer needs more RAM. However something that old may max out at 512 MB. Check the specs at dell.com You Core 2 duo should handle almost anything with enough RAM.
An upgrade to 4 gigs may help, adding the video card will definitely help. So if the old Dell can be upgraded, go that way. Otherwise buy new or have something custom built.
However my old saying is that to double the value of a Dell computer, just drop a penny inside the case.
I'm all about upgrading old machines and running with them forever... In your case I'd just buy a new one because if you want to do anything like run windows 7...upgrading your current machine isn't going to run windows 7. Get a new one...bite the bullet. If you're sticking with windows XP and are just browsing and checking email then upgrade...but again..just buy new at this point.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.