Your specific model is probably the 17-210, due to the MT spindle. I own a similar model, and have nothing but good to say about it; it's smooth, accurate and powerful, and it even looks cool. The missing table is a bummer, but if you decide to keep it, look for the T-track production table made for the 1960's 17" Delta- the original table leaves a lot to be desired in terms of holding down work. You will need the table raisning mechanism, because the table is quite heavy.
I know most people want the J33 version of the drill press, but for metal working the M3 spindle is more versatile, letting you run larger bits (a Delta 17" can drill an awfully big hole if you work slow ) and giving you a wider range of drill chucks. I have chucks for mine from 3/8" ( handy for tight quarters) up to a 5/8" and Morse taper drills for anything larger. If the taper and spindle are clean and don't have any dings, that drill press is capable of good accuracy. Your machine has what looks like a Jacobs Super chuck- don't get rid of it, it can be cleaned and regreased. A good replacement chuck will not be cheap, but used ones in good shape for the smaller sizes are fairly common.
I have three of that series of drill press, one for metal, one for wood and one set up with the mortising attachment. I really don't think there's a better drill press of that size made, to be honest.
-James Huston
