I agree with flyinkiwi.
That thing about cruising in a PA28 - if you're talking about an archer (-180) sure. It is designed for touring with extended wings, a bit more slippery and more powerful engine.
However if you are in a warrier (-140) with its candybar wing which are each about a foot shorter, handling wise you have to learn much more how to fly it, and it compares to be just as good a trainer as the cessnas. Lets not compare
apples and oranges.
However, it really doesn't matter (I learnt across 3 aircraft - Bolkow Junior, PA28 warrier and SA Bulldog.