Another thing to consider is whether the handlebars and saddle can be adjusted to be relatively the same height- some touring bikes have that feature. Bars way lower than saddle is sort of a racing position thing which has now become almost ubiquitous in road bikes.
Many road bikes can only take skinny tires that will get flats on gravel and dirt roads (or potholes!) so you need to consider where you want to ride. Touring bikes do tend to be made to take various width tires and can easily be ridden on rough surfaces.
One needs to weigh one's desire for speed vs. distance and come up with a good "fit" for their needs.