I have flown both the 172 and Piper.  I like the Cessna 172 better.  I think it is easier to fly.

In the end an airplane is an airplane. If you have the choice, fly both and see which one YOU feel comfortable in. After you get some experience, you'll be able to bounce between the two and not feel any difference. Pick a plane and have fun,

The only ‘fault’ that can be found with the newer planes is that they are so forgiving of error and so
easy to fly that the student may not fully understand the plane motion as necessary. However Piper 161and cessna 172 are equally good. You can choose any of them but having a good instructor is very important. if u wish to know more about choosing the right airplane u may visit http://www.privatepilotssecrets.com

Hello:

You want to use the most basic airplane you can find. No new high tech stuff.

Most schools will have pipers or cessnas. Either is fine I have been training in both for almost 20 years.

If you can, find a school that has tailwheel training and start in that. That will make you a much better pilot in the long run

Airfreddy

I agree with one other person - it depends on what you feel comfy in.  Have a flight in both and see which you like better.  For me it was two things - budget, and flying a 'pilots' airplane - one that demands precise control - so I could be a better pilot.  For me, that was the Katana (until it was sold! ).

That Katana was almost $30/hr cheaper at the time, and that would have saved a lot of money.  BUT, I sure would not have wanted to do my long x-country in it.