I would probably go to competitions if I found one close, but competing isn't my goal. I just want it to sound loud and wondered if it would make any difference. With the enclosure dimensions I have in mind the box would be pretty close to the back side of my trunk. I read in more than one place that you need some space in between the port opening and your trunk. The best way for me to accomplish that would be to face the port towards the front of the car, but I was worried about negative side effects of doing so.