$0.02 worth:
Back in my instructor days, I found that pilots initially learning on the 150 or 152 found the 172 a piece of cake, a bit more stable and only slightly heavier controls.
The opposite transition 172 > 152 was more challenging; student is likely to overcontrol for a while. Noticeable, but no big deal, either way.
The bigger deal is entry/exit. 172 Front seat loads first with seats slid aft; then slide forward so the rear seats can be loaded.