I have two platform choices:  A Dell 1500 Precision Workstation or a 3500.  The platforms have different choices as far as processors.  The 3500s push the quadcore Xeons, while the 1500s push the i5s and i7s.  Here are pics of current processor offerings for both.

On top of that, the 1500 only offers a 7200 RPM drive, while the 3500 offers a 10,000 RPM dirve.  Forget SSDs with Dell - they rip you.  IT here does not want to touch these guys when they come in - save for adding memory and wiping the drive and installing software.  I have a question regarding processors.  Would the i5-680 running at 3.6 Ghz (3.86Ghz  turbo) do better in core SolidWorks and FEA compared to something like a quad core Xeon (with much lower clock speed)?  If the qaud core Xeons can best the i5-680 at a reasonable price, then the 3500 makes the most sense with the 10,000 RPM drive - otherwise its pick my poison.  Any thoughts?

Pete