When you rode the two bikes, did the shop first set the fore/aft position of the saddle? They would be looking at the location of your knee over the pedal when the pedals are at a 3 and 9 position.

If they did that before you test rode, you should be able to tell a difference in the cockpit length of the bike, that is how far you have to reach to the hoods. Too long and you are probably putting a lot of weight on your hands and your neck will feel strained. You need to feel comfortable riding with your elbows bent a bit when out on the hoods. If the cockpit is too short, you'll feel a little scrunched with knees and elbows getting in the way of each other. Others can help describe this.

Most women who have long legs and short torsos need a shorter top tube. The saddle will be farther out of the frame but the reach will be shorter.

Cockpit/reach length can be adjusted by stem length also. You just want to be sure it isn't overly long or short as it will affect the steering. You never ever, ever, move the saddle to reach the bars. That is why the shop should first set the fore/aft and height of the saddle before you compare.