Cross is Cross. Get out there and do it regardless of what you have to ride.
I personally think you learn so much about handling and falling, etc. .....maybe that's why I don't really care much about the bump and grind in the road packs.
I helped sell a cross bike last night. You missed out on that deal for sure. NOS Blue Cross frame and fork went for cost. Yowza!
I have cross on the brain.....now...to go find a winter/insulated cheerleading uniform that will fit a short and fat man.....