Man, I'm sorry to read about your accident and I hope you weren't hurt too bad ... as far as your experience with the insurance company, I'm glad you're satisfied with the turn out. Up here in BC Canada, you don't have the option to buy back your vehicle if insurance (Government insurance company) writes it off. The best you can hope for is that you can maintain posession long enough to remove what you can and present your best case (records and receipts) to negotiate the best number. With a special or vintage vehicle, you must get an assessment of value before you insure it.
I think you received a reasonable payout. Its great to see that the value of our 4Runners have maintained. I know I could sell my 4R for what I paid in 12'. AND you're right, it is becoming harder to find 3rd gens in good shape!