Search for "A8" [link|http://www.carbibles.com/suspension_bible.html|here]. It sounds like the problem was more likely due to a bad link in the multi-link front suspension.
OTOH, if you search for "torsion bar" it sounds as if that would affect the ride quality but not be so much of a safety issue.
At least on old GM cars, the front torsion bar has long bolts with rubber bushings that always failed over time. It made noise, and made the car lean, but wasn't a real safety issue.
FWIW.
Cheers,
Scott.
(Who hopes the repairs went well.)