For speediness, climbing ability, and overall flying fun, I much prefer the little 2-seater, Cessna 150 with its RR Continental O-200-A 100HP Engine, and the Cessna 152 with its Lycoming O-235 110HP Engine.
They are much lighter overall, very predictable and forgiving, and less nose-heavy than the larger engined Cessna 172, making them excellent first Trainers...
...and overall cheap-to-run, fun machines... [smiley=thumbsup.gif]...!
My little Flight Sim Cessna 150 Aerobat has an exciting, "non-mentionable"...
...), turn of speed... 
.... 
....!I use her daily for all my local, "touring/exploring" flights..
...and, of course, regular flight practice..!Paul...G-BPLF...FS 2004...FS Navigator...and a cute baby Cessna... 8-)...!
