I purchased a variable speed orbital polisher from autozone for $50 and have enjoyed learning how to use it on my beater pickup. I was amazed as to how quickly I could burn paint using 2000 rpm and a mild polish. Lesson learned was keep the head moving.
It is fun to start a detail project with the orbital and then finish with the PC when the paint is bad since I use the PC most the time.
Plus, with the right plates and adaptors it is a very versatile tool to use in the shop.
Cheers,
Eric