Q: can i use my old mac hard drive to boot with my new mac?

The old HDD will NOT boot the new MBP.  You will have to install Mavericks in the HDD and then it will work.  An older OS than what was originally installed in a MBP will not boot said MBP.

Ciao.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5872

you should be able to get and external enclosure, install the hadr drive from the old machine inside, then connect to your new computer.

You need something like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Sabrent-3-5-Inch-Aluminum-Enclosure-EC-3US35/dp/B003CJQ69A /ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1394736238&sr=8-7&keywords=hard+drive+enclosure

You can use migration assistant to move your data and programs:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5872

i need your help  i see where  u say move data  and programs  , i have  a similar  predicament i  have  a older mac  got  a new  one  . the  older hard drive one  has  my life  on  it , and  also has more storage , can  i tangle  to and fro with bout  hard drives  as  if  i had  two computers bout  from  both  at  will .?