ASHP - HX/fan orientation vs efficiency

[Piwoslaw]

I've noticed 3 main types of housings for the outdoor heat exchangers in AC/ASHP:

1. MiniSplit with vertical HX and horizontal fan:
   
2. Typical household unit, with vertical HX and vertical fan:
   
3. Large commercial units with V-shaped HX and vertical fans:
   

Are these types used only depending on how much space is available, is one type more (energy- or cost-)efficient than others?

[NiHaoMike]

The side discharge type is better if the unit where there is an overhang (less "bounceback") but not very good if there isn't a large open space in front. (It can also be used as a clothes dryer during the summer far more easily than the other two types - just set a drying rack in front!)

Both top discharge types do the best if there's a clear view of the sky.