There are two types of "total loss". The most common is " Beyond economical ( retail ) repair to pre-crash levels " . The other is " too rusted, too mangled to repair even if parts / labor were free."

Many on this list have bought their "total " back for sub 10 % of settlement, made at home / partly subbed out repairs and continued to drive. You will likely end up with a salvage title then after repairs it will need to be inspected to assure it was done properly ( safe ) . At that point you will be issued a reconstructed title.

You would be surprised to see what little damage will total an older car. With an at home repair, you can use some artistic license by using parts from a older/ newer car as sometimes trim is changed but the parts will bolt on and look just fine.