Opinions on the hp/compaq nc4000

Archived from groups: comp.sys.laptops (More info?)

I've been looking seriously at laptops for ~2months and have pretty
much decided, no surprise, to get the lightest, cheapest, and fastest
machine I can afford. Overall, I prefer ultralight laptops without
drives. IBM seems to be the best brand, but too expensive (though
apparently thieves sell them on e-bay). Toshiba next then Sony (though
their customer service really stinks, the laptops are beautiful). If
worse comes to worse I'll get a Dell 600m at whatever deal Michael
Dell is running that day (I'd like to get my hands on a 700m, but
based on the pictures I don't think I'll like it).

Presently, I am considering purchasing a new hp/compaq nc4000 but have
no 'hands on' experience with the brand or the machine. What I know
about the laptop is it has very short ~2.5hr battery life for an
ultralite but is otherwise pretty decent. How is the look and feel. Is
it worth $1400?

Thanks,
ent