road cycle recommendation for a newbie

[Rajarshi]

Hi, I used to do a bit of mountain biking a few years back but would
like to get into road cycling. At this point I'm considering between a
Specialized Allez and a Giant OC3.

I've found many reviews for the Allez but not any for the OC3, though
I think someone had mentioned that the Giant did not absorb shocks
very well.

Also I see that I can page about $400 more and go to the Allez Elite
or OC1 - given that my goal is not really to race, but more for
fitness and weekend length tours, which brand would people recomend?
And is it worth the extra $400 to go from the low end model to the
upper-level model?

Any pointers would be appreciated

Thanks,
Rajarshi