I can't feel the difference between good alloy and a steel frame.
Seriously I just bought a 90's steel frame and I've already ridden it quite a bit. It even has those annoying really thin old road bars made out of steel which should be really good dampeners.
Also the steel bike has wider tires so even with that it should be more comfortable.

I notice absolutely no difference to my crux. Except that the crux might be more comfortable. At least on cobbles. I hate cobbles. I cannot understand the guys riding paris-roubaix.

Also, old caliper brakes suuuuuck! So bad braking it makes little kittens cry!

And the worst confession of all

I love cantilever brakes. SO much power and modulation