Yeah you really need to polish it first to hide all the scratches and bring out the colour. Then protect it using wax. check out
http://www.meguiars.com.au/Products_Retail_PC_PP.htm
http://www.meguiars.com.au/Products_Retail_PC_M.htm
I do the following once every couple of months:
1. Wash the car (make sure you spray and soak the car first to release loose dirt) Rinse your sponge regularly in the bucket to get rid of dirt on the sponge that could make swirl marks (I used Gold Class wash)
2. Use a good quality Chamois to dry the car
3. Use a soft non abrasive cloth and turpentine and go over the whole car to get rid of the grime that has adhered to your car over the years/months which a simple wash will not get off! believe me the car looks clean but after doing this you'll see more black grime come off your car! pay attention to bug and tar the turps will dissolve these with ease (turps works fine but if you have the funds try Meguiars Paint Cleaner, I personally think turps does the job fine but then again you can tell me how good it is...)
4. Polish (I used Deep Chrystal Polish)
5. Wax (I used Deep Chrystal Wax)
Try Scratch X I heard it does wonders for scratches and swirls
http://www.meguiars.com.au/Products_Retail_PC_SP.htm
Of course theres your wheels/tyres too (I use their tyre protecant gel and the non acid wheel cleaner)
http://www.meguiars.com.au/Products_Retail_TW.htm
Now enjoy your shine and watch how easy it is to maintain the shine for the next couple of months (just wash every week or 2 and watch how easy the dirt comes off the polished/waxed surface)
Come on we love our cars so let's keep it clean and shiny, it can only be good for the overall FTO reputation and resale price.