Macbook Pro for HD video -memory and external hard drive questions?

Hi!
I am a Macbook user, but I plan to purchase a Macbook Pro since I am now doing a lot of HD (not HDV) video editing. I live outside of the U.S. and cannot call the Apple Store, so was wondering if anyone can provide advice on the forum.
I'm interested in either the 15-inch: 2.53GHz or 15-inch: 2.66GHz. is there a big difference in speed between these?
-Is the 4GB memory the MBP comes with enough for HD video editing purposes, or would I opt for the 8GB? (here prices becomes a bit of an issue)
- Is the 500GB Serial ATA Drive @ 5400 rpm sufficient or would I upgrade to the 500GB Serial ATA Drive @ 7200 rpm [Add $50.00]
-I want to purchase an external firewire drive to store my media on-does anyone know if the G-Raid 500 would be good? Portability is a big issue for me since I travel very often.
Thank you all so much for your help!!

I looked at the 15inch and 17inch but chose the 17inch - and I am a filmmaker. I too travel on location extensively and usually carry a 15inch due to size-weight - but the 17inch is much better for HD. The video card and screen resolution in the 17inch is much better than than the 15inch but what clinched it for me was the 17inch has a CF reader and the 15inch only has a small SD card reader.
Most video HD cams are shooting straight to CF cards now.
I also upgraded to the 7200 rpm drive - a wise choice for $50 extra.
Yes 4G ram will run Final Cut OK - but if you go from FCP to motion a lot then you will need 8G.

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