Yes, same unlocking procedure, and statistically you can expect a slightly higher overclock, but not worth the additional money IMO.
The best bet if you have your heart on overclocking, is to get an athlon 1700+ and a really nice hsf, then run the 1700+ at 166fsb(if you have a 166fsb motherboard) or unlock it and run it at around 2100+-2200+ speeds. Most 1700+'s (especially the ones with the new green packaging) will be able to do this handily.
"The Cash Left In My Pocket,The BEST Benchmark"
No Overclock+stock hsf=GOOD!