I enjoyed reading your thoughts on this matter. Cards on table, I should start by saying I think he's the best character in the programme, because his *character* is so interesting. It is true though, that Owen does indeed come across as both reckless with actions, feelings and consequences. He lives on adrenaline and instant pleasure. It will be fascinating to see if we ever get a hint of why he is like this.
I came across a wonderful snippet of conversation at the end of a Fifth Gear test drive of the Honda NSX, the blue car Owen drives in Ghost Machine. It goes like this...

'Everytime you see a guy driving an NSX, no matter how old, what do you think?'
'He knows *exactly* what he's up to.'

I think the writers chose exactly the right car for the character they are portraying. Owen knows who is is. That, too, is interesting.

Anyway, thanks, sorry I rambled :D