Yes, you need a 64-bit OS to even fully use 4GB of RAM. 8GB of RAM on a 32-bit OS is completely wasted. I wouldn't waste your time on 64-bit XP when you can get 64-bit Windows 7 for $100.
Yes, you need a 64-bit OS to even fully use 4GB of RAM. 8GB of RAM on a 32-bit OS is completely wasted. I wouldn't waste your time on 64-bit XP when you can get 64-bit Windows 7 for $100.