It depends on what better means to you.
To most photographers, better means bigger aperature (lower f/ number on the lens) for better low light and creativity, and bigger sensors for better low light and dynamic range, and more creative control like PASM modes (so you are not stuck with the guess the camera always makes)
Photographically, the L820 is no better than the physically smaller S9400 (they both have small sensors)
The L820 is missing one of the biggest advantages of a bridge style, it does not have an EFV (electronic viewfinder) which is very useful when taking pictures in the sun and there is a lot of glare on the screen. I've not been a fan of the L series (most good Nikon point and shoot cameras are P series) but the L820 at least looks OK with a CMOS sensor...but probably still not a camera I'd have on a short list.
I'd start by looking at some reviews at DPReview.com
