Linux boot to transfer XP

SCENARIO
Want to migrate entire drive (XP-programs-data) from my old dying computer (Pent4) to another old (Pent4 still working) whose hard drive is completely wiped clean.

PROBLEM
With target drive wiped clean I have nothing to grab copied files.

QUESTION
Can I boot Linux from CD on target and then use Linux to copy the hard drive of my existing computer?
Will any conflict arise between Linux and XP in this process?

if the hardware is identical you could use knoppix and DD without too much touble, if you change ANY hardware you have a crashed XP install.
everything will be there but Xp wont boot as there is a hardware issue.