Using windows key from old computers?

I work with a small architecture firm and we have been struggling for quite some time but now we are finally starting to pick up again. Currently we are using 6 year old PCs (that we built) running windows XP.
In December we are going to be purchasing all new iMacs. We will be running our cad software (Autocad & Revit) on windows via bootcamp.

Now on to the Windows issue
Bestbuy has pricing for Windows 7 at $300 and Windows 8 at $69
Currently, Autocad and Revit have system requirements of Windows XP or 7. We definitely don't want to stick with XP so we will be getting 7 (for now). The problem is we really don't want to shell out $300 per computer when I'm sure we will upgrade to 8 anyway when later releases of our cad software would be compatible.

Is it possible to use the Windows XP keys from our old computers on the new iMacs in order to get the less expensive Windows 7 upgrade?

On recent versions of bootcamp, windows 7 is the minimum OS

I would trial out one new mac with windows 8 and try it out, its basically windows 7 anyway and should run your applications just fine

Is it possible to use the Windows XP keys from our old computers on the new iMacs in order to get the less expensive Windows 7 upgrade?

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No, you can not use an XP PID (key). The new iMacs will only be able to run Windows 7 for now and very likely Windows 8. Windows 8 uses the same driver model as Windows 7, so it will only require an update to the Boot Camp assistant. Software that works on Windows 7 should (according to MS) work on Windows 8.

What I suggest you do is purchase the OEM system builder's full install version of Windows 7 x 64 bit from Amazon.com. The single install version is only $99.00 and you may actually be able to get it discounted if you purchase more copies.

Keep this in mind, however: The new iMacs do not have an optical drive which makes it more difficult to install Windows. You will need to use iso images of Windows 7 to install instead. Probably using a USB 3 flash drive.

Great suggestion from member "ThuyNga". WinToFlash is free for non commercial use and can be downloaded from their web site: LINK

Actually I'm pretty sure you can install XP, however it is no longer supported by Apple. You can get the drivers using an old version of the Boot Camp Assistant. But since you are getting new iMacs, you are out of luck with that one.