Fit is very important - it sounds like you absolutely made the right choice, and got a great deal to boot. When I bought my bike, the bars and seatpost were replaced before I left the shop. I needed wider bars with a shallower drop, and a seat post with more setback.
Just out of curiousity, do you have a long torso for your height? If so, this is likely why the Jake the Snake felt more comfortable for you.