For washing I use a cotton wash mitt with Zaino car wash. For drying I use the California Water Blade (this is an absolute must.) Follow up drying with the Absorber and finally, finish with Zaino gloss enhancer using 100% cotton white bath towel. Note the California Water Blade and the Absorber can be purchased at Pep Boys and the cotton towel (only used for the Z) should be a brand name (Fieldcrest (Kohl's has good sales), Martha Stewart (at K-Mart, but they work fine.) Another tip - after using the Absorber, the paint may still be damp in areas, but I still spray the gloss enhancer on and proceed with a towel.
This works well for my black Z. Also, as you know, waxing regularly protects paint.
This is just my technique.
------------------
2001 ZO6 BLK./RED