WelshFlyer you must have had a chubby instructor!
I did my PPL in ARV's, C150/2's, AA-5A's and have flown Warriors post PPL. My personal preference for a tourer would be the PA-28 over the C-152 but as a trainer I think the C-152 does a better job. It might be a few inches (and it is only a few inches) narrower than a PA-28 but:
a) It doesn't have the junior airline pilot instrument panel that blocks your forward view (I'm 6' tall by the way)
b) It has a better view of the ground for early navigation practice
c) It is less directionally stable so you have to use the rudder more than in a PA-28
d) It can be spun unlike all but the earlier PA-28's
e) It's cheaper
f) It doesn't float so much on landing
g) It doesn't make a BOING noise like a giant coke can when you land "firmly"
h) It has two doors
i) It has great flaps
j) It leaves an interesting diamond pattern on your forehead when you accidentally head butt the trailing edge on the walk around
I still think that the ARV was the best trainer I've flown. What a shame that they went into service before they were fully sorted.