Lifehacker covers Vista's small and large features missing from XP, separates them into three categories: applications, functional, and aesthetic (e.g., transparency is aesthetic, the new start menu search is functional). This list is not exhaustive, but it does cover the features readers feel make Vista worth it.

I hate Vista. I don't use those features because I don't use IE I go straight to firefox. One needs more computer knowledge than I possess to master Vista. I want my XP.
I also hate Comcast and Dell

Firefox is excellent and FREE
Thanks to Firefox developer, alanocu and kkcapricorn

crystalxp.net is the place to go to download various vista skins for Win XP, but I must warn you , use with caution, it has been known to stuff up your pc especially when you try uninstalling the theme. Happened to me using the bricopacks.