To answer your question, the American is probably better for a walking around gun. The bbl is shorter and lighter, much faster handling and a joy to carry. I dont think theres enough difference in the way they shoot to cause you any concern.
And on coyotes, the 204 does just fine in most instances. 35gr Berger bullets, if you handload, are the ticket. If you buy factory, 40gr VMax does fine. May not shoot as tiny of a group but will hold minute of coyote way on out there.
Especially if you use some sense and dont spray and pray at runnin coyotes like the road hunters, excuse me, hound runners do. Put one in the bread basket and its over.
Good luck.
