I'll take a different approach and encourage you to get the new shiny bike that you can afford so you won't be jonesing for a new bike in 6 months. It'll be more fun, and you won't look back regretting the purchase.

I'm 66 and have only been riding road for the last 3.5 years. I have a 2020 Domane (my first road bike since my college days), and a 2023 Emonda, both with 12-speed Di2. Love those bikes, but find myself more on the Emonda than the "comfort" geometry. You are not too old for a sporty new bike!

And, since you live in the sunny south (like I do), I wouldn't worry about having a rain bike since there are plenty of sunny days to ride, unlike a friend who used to live the PNW and had to ride in the rain if he was to ride.