If I get a new computer with Windows 7 already on it, format the hard drive, and then install XP, will I have any problems with the installation?

I understand that when Vista came with new machines, the only way you could do this is if you formatted the hard drive, then installed all the necessary chipsets and drivers for the manufacturer of the machine (i.e. HP, Dell drivers) before installing XP, since the machine was made for Vista only.

Is this the same for Windows 7, or should XP install without having to find drivers, chipsets, etc. to allow XP to work on the new machine?

Thanks.

Because I want to stay with XP. I thought you can downgrade from Windows 7 to XP, which means you can change down from Windows 7 to XP, so why couldn't you just wipe the hard drive of Windows 7 and put XP on it?

Just upgrade to Windows 7 Professional or higher and you will have Windows XP as a Virtual Machine.

Best of both worlds.