The main Vistana is larger----a tad closer to WDW too. It's about 3 traffic lights from the entrance to Downtown Disney/Marketplace.
Yes...there are various sections at the main resort. They are sort of like little neighborhoods. Vistana has more lush and mature vegetation/trees, due in part, to it being older. The resort is currently under a major remodel. To date, the Lakes, Fountains I & II, and very soon the Springs (by June) will be complete. The newest section, the Cascades, is not complete yet, but since it's not that old anyway, the need for a major rehab is not as necessary either. In other words, these villas are very nice and already appear updated.
Villages is newer and all buildings have elevators. Since the main resort is older, only the Lakes and Cascades have elevators. The other sections are either 2 or 3 stories high. So if mobility is an issue, at the main Vistana, be sure to request "elevator bldg or ground floor for mobility or medical reasons".
Not sure about the Villages as far as food availability at the resort. I believe they have a little store/deli ? Maybe someone can confirm ?
At the main Vistana, you'll have more food options
1)Marketplace which is the resort's general store offering food/toiletries/beer/wine etc for stocking your villa as well as offering deli items and rottisserie chicken meals.
2)there are two poolside bar and grills with quick food and drink options at the Cascades pool and Fountains pool
3)sit down restaurant called Zimmies near the Super pool....also has outdoor bar for poolside convenience.
4)Pizza Hut and KFC/A&W is new this year
ALL offer villa room service.
There are 7 pools at the main Vistana and you will get a more varied activity calendar of events there. There are lots of kids' activities.
The main Vistana also offers :
All-You-Can-Eat Family Barbecue: 6 - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday
Barbecue chicken and ribs, hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, corn-on-the-cob and all the fixings
Followed by Karaoke Night from 7 - 10 p.m.
Maria