I have a Dell Inspiron 1720 laptop with:
Windows Vista
Intel Core Duo 2.4 ghz processor
4mb Ram
Nvidia GeForce 8600m w/256mb memory
Will Skyrim run on this computer? I don't want to have to buy a new one. this cost $2100.
There already has been a Master thread for your question, here:
http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1286423-unofficial-will-my-pc-run-skyrim-thread-55-w-hardware-guide/page__st__100__gopid__19588548#entry19588548
Thus, there is no need at all for still another duplicate of the same thread.
Incidentally, a five year old laptop is already basically obsolescent, and ready to be recycled any day. The original cost is all used up.