I guess there is a difference in the level of committment a rider makes for a one day race which is all about giving a depleting effort in total committment to victory, and the level of committment a rider makes in a stage race, which requires more measured efforts and pacing for the long term competition.
Indurian was the master of the latter while on some tours, it seemed like Bernard Hinault rode every stage as though it was a one day classic.
Hampsten's victory at Gavia was legendary among all victories, and made him an enduring hero in Italy, where he has home and business interests.
While not a huge Hampsten fan myself, he did sieze the moment that day, and rode into the history books forever.