Hi there. I think you have decide what you are going to fly post IMC and night ratings and base your choice on that. The schools where I learnt , tend to use the 172 or pa28 for the IMC as they tend to have the better equipment fit.
However, as you say you havent done any flying in the UK yet and havent flown since May, I would recommend doing some VFR flying over here first to
a) get the correct amount of solo cross country hours in to start the courses.
b) get your flying skillls up to speed for the IMC.
c) get used to UK flying (its very different to the USA particulary the comms side).
If I were you the first thing I would do is pop down to your local club and get a few hours in with an instructor. Then go and enjoy the views and have some fun.
With regard to hours required and indeed anything else you need to know about your licence and pre course requirements download 'Lasors' from the CAA site.
good luck and safe flying
FISH