Car Paint Types

[Ouch]

Hey guys, i'm in the market for a new car and just wondering if anybody can explain the difference in all the types of paint, ie: non-metallic, metallic, mica, pearlescent. Obviously the metallic has metal bits in it and makes it more shiny, but i'm more interested in the properties of each....

Does one type have greater longevity? In terms of resistance to fade; resistane to scratch? etc...... Have done internet search, but cant find anything that answers my questions....