rodar y rodar is correct, the description I have heard of the 610 frame is "same as the 1000 but a bit stiffer", so not exactly the same but splined tripple butted with the same geometry (I guess). The folks in Vintage and Classic may know more.
I also agree that Deore components, 8 speed, cheaper wheelset will certainly give you a fine touring bike. I am going for a "dream build" (within my budget) for future transference to a custom frame and it is definitely not a "minimum requirements" for a touring 610.
FWIW I've had my Miyata 100 for 25 years and have toured with all original parts, Araya wheels etc, slowly upgrading ("bit by bit" as rodar y rodar says it is a fun way to do it) to Ultegra 600 crankset and derailleurs and a Mavic/Ultegra rear wheelset, but still have the friction stem shifters and 7-speed cassette. It is only recently that I decided on a total (and costly) rebuild.
