I just stayed in a 1BR 357 that was close to the road, had no problem with road noise, view of EPCOT not great, Illuminations blocked by trees.
I usually request rooms at the west end closest to the main elevators and BC lobby, but it is farthest from the parking lot if you will have a car and want to self park,( and closest to the bus stop if you don't) otherwise opt for valet parking. You can call valet before you leave the room and your car will be there when you get there, it's worth the $2-3 dollar tip.
I prefer the upper floors, I've never had a courtyard view don't think I would like that. If you're a people watcher the pool views, or courtyard are the best bet. The best view of Illuminations would be 222,322,422 the higher the better, and there's another studio directly across the hall 221,321,421 which would have a courtyard view. 206,212,306,312,406,412 are pool views and only a couple of doors apart.
It could be difficult to get 2 rooms close together, the villas are usually at capacity or close to it, good luck.