I'm surprised it's only been said once on this thread but the solution to the problem is a Jodel D140 or a 160hp+ Robin DR400.
First time I flew a 172 frightened me as, for 4-seaters, I'd only flown the big Jodel. I thought there was something wrong with the engine.
If you want a Cessna then the 177RG was the first metal one which performed well.