Linux Mint vs. Windows XP

I am discontent with my computers random clutter and speed so I was going to just install Mint to clear all the clutter and hopefully speed up my computer a little. I would just do a fresh windows install but I don't have the recovery disc so that is not an option. Also I am a little hesitant to do so from the fact that I have used windows all my life and only just last week have I had a chance to use a linux distro, so I am worried that if I wipe my drive and install Mint I could be disappointed with the results. All I do mostly is browse the internet and some really light gaming.

So my questions are:

1 - Mint vs. XP in speed
2 - Ease of use compared to windows
3 - Compatibility with windows software (Such as games and such, I know about Wine already.)
4 - Better linux distros for my specifications and needs

My system specifications

Intel celeron 2.2 GHz single core
512 mb intel graphics
1 GB DDR2 ram
80 GB 5400 rpm hard drive