We're thinking of getting a CLK convertible. We live in the UK (where it rains a lot) and have no space left in the garage. Will the CLK be OK living outside? Is there a hard-top available for the convertible?

Yes, it will be fine outside. Just remember to clean and take care of the top.

yeah it should be fine but if you are worried get a car cover.

I would also suggest a cover if you are going to force it to sleep in the outdoors.

Are the covers that just go over the top half of the car any good? I've heard of bad things happening with the "whole car" type covers (wind moves the cover around, and where it touches the paintwork it wears a load of fine scratches into the paint).

If you have a garage put it in there, to replace the entire top (cover, liner, and insulation) cost me $6000.00 US dollars. My car is always garage kept, I have another vehicle to drive on hot (120 plus) days or rainy days and when I go to areas I do not trust the locals. If you have to keep it out keep it clean and purchase the MB top conditioner to repel water, it is amazing.
Ed

Nononono, you don't understand
I have a garage large enough for a single car. One of my other cars is a TVR -- a handbuilt, British sports car. Although ludicrously fast, it is hideously unreliable and even though it has a solid roof (as solid as fibreglass can be, anyway) it fills up with water when it's raining. Leaving it outside is not an option.

Currently we have a Peugeot 206CC which has a metal folding roof, much like the SLK (except the CC has two little seats in the back). The CLK will replace the CC, so it has to go outside