Or would it be more beneficial to them to get one of the new iMacs?
When does your girlfriend's parent need to buy her new iMac by? The new iMacs will most likely be introduced during MacWorld New York which is in a few weeks (July). The current $1,499 iMac is a really good bargain considering it's a reasonably fast PowerPC G3/500, 64MB RAM, 20GB Hard Drive, 16MB ATI RAGE 128 graphics card, FireWire, USB, 56k mode, 10/100 Ethernet, AirPort ready, CD-RW, and the following applications:
Software Mac OS 9.1, Mac OS X (8), QuickTime, iMovie 2, iTunes (4), AppleWorks 6, Microsoft Internet Explorer, Microsoft Outlook Express, Netscape Communicator, Quicken Deluxe 2001, Palm Desktop, FAXstf, Cro-Mag Rally, Bugdom, and Nanosaur. Most applications are preinstalled. Product contains electronic documentation. Backup copy of software is provided on CD-ROM.
Hardware Accessories All models include Apple Pro Keyboard; Apple Pro Mouse; FireWire camcorder cable; modem cable; locking cable fastener; Apple Hardware Test CD; complete setup, learning, and reference documentation.
Limited Warranty
and Service One-year Limited Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Review a copy of the Limited Warranty on new products, including its limitations and exclusions.
Internet Access All models also include 30 days of free Internet service through EarthLink. Internet access requires an Internet service account.
If your girlfriend's parents can WAIT until late August to early September that's when the new iMacs should available for purchase and the current iMacs should drop in price anywhere from $100-$300. I'm just wondering how the iMac will change, it's long overdue for a major rehaul since it's introduction August 15, 1998.