These were made by Mattel primarily for the international market I believe. 1/43rd is most commonly collected around the world, and is somewhat a standard (as is 1/64 in the U.S.) 1/18 is also collected globally while in the U.S., we more commonly collect 1/24-1/25. $30- $40 is a fair price as many 1/43 brands can fetch at MSRP $60, $70, $80 for this size. However, you will typically not get opening hoods with engine detail, nor opening doors, although interior detail is often meticulous, as are the details of the tires, wheels, badging, paint, etc. I've not really thoroughly examined any Mattel 1/43, but I suspect that the detail and finish is of very high quality, if only to be competitive or gain a foothold in overseas markets.

I don't buy a lot of 1/43, but do pick a few up of cars that I especially like. I can tell you that they do look great on the shelf especially in the company of others of the same scale.