Seems I've opened a can of worms here.

Been messing with operating systems since I was a nipper, from Spectrum 48k BASIC to Amiga Workbench to DOS to Windows. And can speak from experience here with plenty of computers running all sorts of stuff.

Lets put them Microsoft ones in order:

Windows 3.1 - Like a Fiesta MK1 - old, but did it's job at the time.
Windows 95 - Wow! A car with power steering....
Windows 98 - Like a 1400cvh on a carb. Does enough until you get bored.
Windows 2000/ME - A 'chrome/blinged up' 1400cvh on a carb. Nowt special.
Windows XP - 1600cvh. Cant beat it for reliability.
Windows Vista - Erm... lets just say 'french', eh?
Windows 7 - Like a duratec, pig to fit, but runs real nice with the right kit.

I've tried all types of operating systems on my PC's over the years and Vista was the biggest mistake Bill Gates ever made. If you like Vista and the layout of Vista, get a copy of Windows XP Black Edition. Nuff said.

I dont hate Vista - i just really really don't recommend it. You pays yo money, you takes yo choice. Each to their own and all that.
If anyones gonna question or argue with advice, then don't ask for it?