Since you also started the Industry Hills thread, I assume you are referencing Billy Bell, Jr.
San Luis Rey Downs is a good test of one's game, but like many of Bell Jr.'s other So. Cal. designs, probably low on most (non-So Cal) folks radar screens. Like many Bell Jr., courses, it has some good holes, but whether it be shot values, routing or public perception, his courses don't seem to inspire, or get the
recognition as those done by his father.
Although Bell, Jr., did a great deal of work in Southern California, I don't think that one can say his courses don't measure up to other So Cal offerings because he mass produced. Maybe it was budget. Maybe it was he didn't have the talent of his father. I have not lived in that area for 10 years, but compared to what was offered when I grew up there, if you played one of his courses, you would get your money's worth, and your game tested.
Why is it better or worse than Riviera or any other course? I don't know how to answer that fairly. I'm sure you would get 10 different answers if you asked 10 different people. I don't think you could judge it fairly against say a Riviera, LACC or Bel-Air, but rather more of the courses in the middle-tier of So Cal golf.