Tapestry covers history, literature, church history, art, geography and has a writing component as well (I don't use the writing).
Tapestry can be a bit confusing and overwhelming at first, but it is a great curriculum. I would suggest printing off their free sample for the year plan that you are interested in. That would give you a chance to read through the lessons and get a "feel" for how the program works.
I've used TOG for the past three years and I pick and choose what to use on a week by week basis. I've made it work for my family by not following every little thing that they suggest! ;)
BTW, the program doesn't come with the books. You choose which books to buy or check out of the library. I tend to buy books that will be used for several weeks and check out the rest from the library.
As to your second question Redesigned is a complete re-working of the curriculum. They have reorganized the material, updated book suggestions and in general made it easier to use. Unfortunately I haven't been able to use the re-design yet (I'm using Year 3 this year and they are just finishing Year 2), BUT I have bought the Redesign to use my next time through.
HTH,
Lee