Any of the drives you mentioned would be good. If you have SATA connections you might look at a Samsung 203B. Have you checked your ASPI to see that it isn't corrupt? XP doesn't need it, but if it's there and it's corrupt you can experience the problems you are seeing. If all is well in that arena, take all the advice and look for a replacement drive.
http://radified.com/ASPI/forceaspi.htm