The alpha should be like this size wise.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNawS9Uq9yc
Are you sure? MadCatz has done non-TE sticks before that used full-sized parts. Also, I'm not sure I could justify $80 for a stick that size. I'm not sure ANYONE could.
$40 is a fair price for the FS Mini. I'd expect the Alpha to be larger.
Before, they were sub 150, hell some of them were sub 100, completely affordable, and approachable. Now, the price is so high, that the price tag acts as a deterrent.
If someone is savvy enough to look at the used market, they'll find a lot of cheaper options. I just got a used HRAP-EX SA at Amazon (from their Warehouse Deals division) for a little over $75 shipped. It arrived today and after a bit of cleaning, it's almost as good as new.