Key differences
- The Sonalika MM 18 has 50 kg more lifting capacity than the VST Shakti MT 171 - useful for heavy implements like a reversible plough, a loaded trailer or a potato planter.
- The Sonalika MM 18 has 7 cc more engine capacity than the VST Shakti MT 171.
- At ex-showroom prices the VST Shakti MT 171 starts about ₹20,000 lower than the Sonalika MM 18, roughly ₹365 a month less on a 5-year loan for 90% at 8%.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Sonalika MM 18 | VST Shakti MT 171 |
|---|---|---|
| HP | 18 | 17 |
| Ex-showroom price | ₹3.2-3.7 lakh | ₹3.0-3.5 lakh |
| EMI (90% loan, 8%, 5 yr) | ₹5,840/month | ₹5,475/month |
| Engine capacity (cc) | 864 | 857 |
| Cylinders | 1 | 1 |
| Rated RPM | 2,300 | 2,400 |
| PTO HP | not published | 10 |
| Lifting capacity (kg) | 800 | 750 |
| Gears | 6 F + 2 R | not published |
| Drive | not published | 2WD |
| Clutch | Single Clutch | SINGLE DRY FRICTION PLATE |
| Brakes | OIB (Oil Immersed Brake) | Oil immersed brakes |
| Steering | Mechanical Steering | MANUAL/POWER |
| Fuel tank (litres) | 18 | 18 |
| Weight (kg) | not published | 798 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | not published | 1,456 |
| Warranty | not published | 2000 Hour / 2 Year |
Specs from each maker's official spec page / spec page (closest listed variant). Prices are indicative ex-showroom; on-road price adds registration, insurance and dealer charges and varies by state.
Which one should you buy?
Match the tractor to your heaviest regular job. If you run a reversible plough, a loaded trolley or a potato planter, lifting capacity matters most. If most of your work is rotavator, thresher or pump, compare PTO HP. Then get on-road quotes for both from dealers near you, and check how far the nearest authorised service centre is - for a 10-year machine, service distance matters as much as a few HP.