I did this because there's some people who know Dell's models quite well, and are interested in IBM, but don't know what model to get. So, this table compares Dell models to IBM models in roles.
I wasn't referring to quality, just roles.
I would never compare a Dell versus an IBM in build quality, FWIW. IBM would blow the Dell away. Or, Dell would use a NiMH battery (like in the Inspiron 2200), and IBM would kill it on battery life.