I learned to fly in a 160hp Tri-Pacer back in the late 1950s and took my check ride in one. I haven't flown one since, but remember them with fondness. I thought they were a class airplane at the time. A little more speed needed on the approach, but not a dangerous airplane by any means. I'd like to have one today and have looked at a couple in lieu of a 150. Fabric, and the above mentioned tubing, deterioration, however, make me wary of Tri-Pacers priced in the 150 range. I never flew a PA-20 Pacer, but they look like a fine airplane too.
Don
