Well, Linux does support NTFS so you will be fine. Actually I use Debian Live DVD to remove viruses on existing Windows instalation or to backup important data before reinstalling system.
The only software that I miss in Linux is AutoCAD. Ofcourse there are alternatives like QCad, Draftsight etc, but they offer very limited support for dwg files.
I faced big problems when I tried to install xubuntu...It said kernel kill ?something like that then i lost every thing even bootable pendrive got corrupted I borrowed external dvd driver and installed vista back.
This time as mentioned by some of you i will try mint
And this time I try to keep vista and mint together you see I am new to Linux world have to get use to it inch by inch
But my first experience with xunbuntu was miserable
i wont give up there must be something good in Linux that you guys support it
well if I want it I have to pay for it