The fixed seat is set at a position that is fairly high. I had
adjustable seats in both front spots in my airplane, so being tall was
never a problem. Your comment about desiring to sit more upright, as
you do in your 182, makes a lot of sense; I'm more of a sports car
person and prefer a more reclined driving and flying position, but
that's purely individual preference. Having your seat fairly upright
in a Cardinal would mean limited headroom.

Wing height is a preference thing as well, I have to bend over whether
I'm getting into a Cardinal or 182, however, with the Cardinal I had
the option of standing at the leading edge of the wing, opening the
door 90 degrees and just sliding in. I also liked the inflight vis of
the Cardinal and Skymaster better than the other high wing Cessnas, due
to wing position.

Yeah, the converted 182 you've described is not terribly good looking.
Does it really have 24" of prop clearance? That sounds like a huge
amount. That seems more consistent with a 180 or 185 with a three
blade prop. If the field is not too rough for a nosewheel, the 182 is
certainly less work on takeoff and landing than the 180 or 185. (I do
like the 182s cabin, it's wider than the 180/185.) BTW, have you flown
the 185 with the IO-550 mod? Impressive performer. Couple friends have
them for operations in the bush and they do some pretty amazing things
with them.

All the best,
Rick