It would be very hard to drive a few hours anywhere on Maui unless you really, really tried. The RC is much closer to all the activities in Lahiana. The Marriott is obviously closer to things in Wailea. But, IMHO, there are many, many more things to do in the Lahaina area than Wailea.

The drives to Hana and Haleakala were about the same from Wailea as they were from Kaanapali, as you need to go back near Kahului from Wailea. It's closer as the crow flies, but there are no road straight up the mountain. The RC's only 15 minutes up the road from Kapalua, so those longer trips are about a wash.

I haven't stayed at the RC, but have stayed at the Marriott as well as multiple properties in Kaanapali. When I go back, I'll likely stay in Kaanapali again. And I'm sure the RC is much nicer, so that would certainly be my preference. Of course, the cost/points difference is substantial.