I agree with you on the first point Alex, I do remember when they were in that lower price range, and the detail was about right for the money.
But I have to say that over the last two years, I think they have risen in detail with along with the price. The only two I own are very detailed...VERY detailed at the $100.00 plus price.
While the last two GMP 's I purchased seem to have dropped a bit in overall quality (down to the $75 to $80 dollar range.) I am not unhappy with them, but the last few are not at the level as my first couple. It may have been the castings I selected, but not as loaded as my first few.
Just thought I would share what I have experienced first hand in my last few purchases. Overall...they are ALL two expensive for toy cars!!!!