The operating temperature is entirely dependant on the temperature rating of your cooling system thermostat. Different temperature thermostats can be purchased, ranging from 160 deg. F to about 180deg. F. The thermostat you currently have may not be opening sufficiently to let the coolant circulate. Your temp shouldn't be running that high, since red line is 212 deg F. Checking the thermostat or even replacing it isn't a difficult or expensive proposition...