I install classic start menu using ninite which lets you install multiple programmes of your choice at the same time and without the usual addon toolbar crap that a lot of programmes try and install in the background.
Ninite - Install or Update Multiple Apps at Once
It's great, just run the...
Windows 8 is fine it's just windows 7 with a new interface that you don't have to see if you just do this:
Make Windows 8 boot straight to the desktop | TechRepublic
Don't install windows xp, an os released 10 years ago- its no way near as good as 8 and you'll get a virus.