OK, given my 'handle' here, I am obviously biased, but here goes
I learned to fly on PA 28s (160 and 180) and moved away from them after getting my ticket. One reason was availability where I was flying at the time (mostly Cessna fleet), but more importantly the sheer pleasure of actually stepping into your a/c rather than clambering over the co-pilot's seat. Also, you say you are 6'3" - I am 6"2' and believe me, I feel your pain! A 172 is a much roomier a/c. Add to that the much better views..... I guess there has to be a reason why the 172 with all it's innumerable variants is the best-selling light a/c of all time.
If you want/need short field capabilities, the 172 has the edge over the PA28.
All that said, you have to take availability into account. Talk to the club as to how many hours/week/month the PA28s and the C172 are available. The fact that there's only one doesn't necessarily mean much, if everyone flies the PA28s!
Other than that, it really comes down to choice. Happy flying.