Maybe it was a difference between the 26" wheels or the 700c ones
But going by the geometry charts, it shouldn't feel like a longer frame.
http://surlybikes.com/frames/pacer_frame/
Another bike that I used to have that was impossibly small for me - a trek 1600 with 650 wheels, I think it was a 43 cm. I don't know if this model is discontinued, but you might be able to find a used 2006/2007
+1 for the Felt my friend is about 5'1 and rides a Felt ZW6 and it fits her really well - can't remember the frame size tho.
Plus, the Specialized 44cm frame is really tiny! May be worth a look?