Keep in mind that you can still get good results by the above listed steps even if your paint isn't in the best of conditions... I'm just pointing out that an older car will require some more work to make the surface smooth again.

Smooth surface = good starting point for finishing product like NXT, Zaino, Mother's reflection, etc...

Wax when rain no longer beads.

Awesome! Thanks for all the help ladies and gents. I will be sure to print this thread out or create some sort of document from it.