I think that they probably sound pretty much the same, but the lines you (that is, one, not you personally) compare are probably different. Theory:
UK: AABB pattern 2x line with the rhythm of 'This little piggy went to' + 1 or 2 syllables 2x line with the rhythm of 'This little piggy had' + 1 or 2 syllables
US: ABAB pattern, where A is a longer line and B is a line of 7 syllables with a rhyme or half-rhyme.
Just a thought, but it might explain why both sides are convinced theirs scans better - they're consciously or unconsciously expecting that line to match a different pattern. Or of course, it could just be a case of the version you're used to sounding better.
no subject
UK:
AABB pattern
2x line with the rhythm of 'This little piggy went to' + 1 or 2 syllables
2x line with the rhythm of 'This little piggy had' + 1 or 2 syllables
US:
ABAB pattern, where A is a longer line and B is a line of 7 syllables with a rhyme or half-rhyme.
Just a thought, but it might explain why both sides are convinced theirs scans better - they're consciously or unconsciously expecting that line to match a different pattern. Or of course, it could just be a case of the version you're used to sounding better.