The solution provided is correct. Let's break it down further for clarity:

1. Arrange the letters in the word "UNIVERSAL" alphabetically:
   A, E, I, L, N, R, S, U, V

2. Assign numerical values equal to the serial number from the left in this rearranged order:
   A = 1
   E = 2
   I = 3
   L = 4
   N = 5
   R = 6
   S = 7
   U = 8
   V = 9

3. Calculate the sum of position numbers of vowels (A, E, I, U):
   Sum = 1 + 2 + 3 + 8 = 14

4. Calculate the sum of position numbers of consonants (L, N, R, S, V):
   Sum = 4 + 5 + 6 + 7 + 9 = 31

5. Find the difference between the total of numerical values of vowels and that of consonants:
   Difference = 31 (consonants) - 14 (vowels) = 17

So, the correct answer is (B) 17.